Meilleure Période pour Visiter
November to February
Devise
Cambodian Riel (KHR) / US Dollar
Langue
Khmer
Fuseau Horaire
ICT (UTC+7)
Discover Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is a city that demands to be felt, not just seen. It's the scent of jasmine and incense wafting from the Royal Palace's Silver Pagoda, the clatter of motorbikes weaving through the French Quarter's ochre-colored villas, and the profound silence that hangs over the glass-fronted cases at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. This is a capital built on the confluence of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap, and Bassac rivers, where life has always flowed with the water, from the early morning fish market at Psar Chas to the golden-hour crowds strolling along Sisowath Quay.
To experience Phnom Penh is to embrace its contrasts. One moment you're haggling for silk scarves in the art deco dome of Phsar Thmei (Central Market), the next you're sipping a craft cocktail on a rooftop bar overlooking the glittering spires of Wat Phnom. The city's soul is found in its street food—bite into a crispy nom banh chok (Khmer noodles) for breakfast, savor a bowl of sour samlor machu trey (fish soup) for lunch, and end the day with grilled prawns and a cold Angkor Beer by the riverside. It's a place where ancient Khmer heritage, colonial charm, and a relentless, optimistic energy collide to create an unforgettable urban adventure.
Why Visit Phnom Penh?
A Deep Dive into Living History: Confront Cambodia's complex past at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, then witness its glorious heritage at the National Museum's unparalleled collection of Angkorian artifacts and the glittering throne room of the Royal Palace.
An Unparalleled Street Food Odyssey: From sizzling skewers of *satay* on Street 63 to the legendary *num pang* (Cambodian baguette) sandwiches at Psar Kandal, Phnom Penh is a paradise for adventurous eaters. Don't miss the bustling nighttime food stalls along the Riverside or a bowl of *kuy teav* (noodle soup) for breakfast.
The Thrill of the Hunt in Legendary Markets: Bargain for everything from gemstones to gramophones under the vast central dome of Art Deco Phsar Thmei, get lost in the sensory overload of Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) for handicrafts and clothing, or experience local life at the wet market, Psar Orussey.
Vibrant Riverside Culture and Nightlife: The Tonlé Sap riverfront is the city's social heartbeat. Join the evening *pasear* along Sisowath Quay, enjoy a sunset cruise, then explore the burgeoning scene of rooftop bars like Eclipse or speakeasies like The Attic for crafted cocktails with skyline views.
Architectural Time Travel: Wander the grid-like streets of the French Quarter near the Post Office to admire restored colonial villas, contrast them with the traditional Khmer architecture of Wat Phnom and the Royal Palace, and see bold modern statements in buildings like the Vattanac Capital Tower.
A Gateway to Authentic Cambodian Crafts: Discover the skill of local artisans. Visit the nonprofit shop at Friends-International, see silk weaving at workshops, or take a short trip to the island of Koh Dach to see traditional ikat weaving and silk production in local family homes.
Phnom Penh est Connue Pour
Prêt à explorer Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh Neighborhoods
Riverside (Sisowath Quay & Around)
The bustling tourist epicenter and social hub of the city, running along the Tonlé Sap River. It's a mix of budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, tourist restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, constantly alive with activity from dawn until late at night.
Highlights:
Best for:
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
An upscale, leafy residential area known for its expat-friendly vibe, trendy cafes, international restaurants, boutique shops, and chic cocktail bars. The streets are quieter and more organized than the Riverside, with a distinctly modern, cosmopolitan feel.
Highlights:
Best for:
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market Area)
Centered around the famous Russian Market, this is a bustling, authentic local district. It's less polished than BKK1, offering a raw and energetic glimpse into everyday Phnom Penh life, with fantastic local food stalls and street-side workshops.
Highlights:
Best for:
The French Quarter (Around the Central Post Office)
A historic grid of streets showcasing the city's colonial legacy. It's characterized by grand, often beautifully restored, French colonial villas, government buildings, and wide, tree-lined boulevards. It feels more formal and tranquil than other districts.
Highlights:
Best for:
Principales Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Carry small US Dollar bills ($1, $5, $10). The US Dollar is widely accepted, but you'll often get change in Cambodian Riel. A mix of both currencies is essential.
- •Download the PassApp or Grab taxi apps. They offer fixed-price, meterless rides via tuk-tuk or car, eliminating haggling and overcharging, especially at night or from tourist spots.
- •Visit the Royal Palace in the morning (opens at 8 AM) to avoid the worst heat and crowds. Remember, shoulders and knees must be covered to enter.
- •For a unique market experience, visit Psar Orussey early in the morning. It's a massive, multi-story local market where you'll see few tourists and every imaginable item for sale.
- •Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially monks and at the Tuol Sleng or Killing Fields sites, where photography of certain exhibits may be restricted or disrespectful.
- •The 'Happy' pizza or shake is a well-known euphemism for cannabis-infused items. Be very clear if you do NOT want these in your food, as they are sometimes offered casually.
- •Cross streets slowly and steadily; don't run or stop suddenly. Motorbike traffic flows around pedestrians predictably. Making eye contact with drivers helps.
- •Carry a pack of tissues or toilet paper with you. While improving, many public and restaurant restrooms may not supply it.
- •Bargain politely but firmly at markets (except fixed-price stores). Start at about 50-60% of the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. A smile goes a long way.
- •For a break from the city chaos, take a short ferry (500 Riel) from the port near the Royal Palace to the peaceful Silk Island (Koh Dach) for a few hours of rural cycling and silk farm visits.
Phnom Penh Food Scene
Phnom Penh's food scene is a thrilling fusion of rustic Khmer flavors, French colonial influences, and vibrant street food culture. Dining is a social, round-the-clock affair, from dawn noodle soups to late-night grilled skewers. The city is the best place in Cambodia to experience the full depth of Khmer cuisine, which balances sour, sweet, salty, bitter, and spicy notes with fresh herbs.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Local Eateries
- • Bai Sach Chrouk at Psar Kandal stalls
- • Kuy Teav at any bustling morning stall
- • Grilled skewers and *phnom pleung* (tabletop BBQ) along Street 63 at night
Look for places crowded with locals. Don't be afraid to point at what others are eating if there's no menu.
Traditional Khmer
- • Romdeng (for a social enterprise serving classics like fried tarantulas)
- • Malis Restaurant (upscale traditional in a garden setting)
- • Friends the Restaurant (training restaurant with creative Khmer fusion)
Share several dishes family-style to sample a variety of flavors. Rice is the centerpiece of every Khmer meal.
Modern & International
- • Cuisine Wat Damnak (celebrated fine-dining tasting menu using local ingredients)
- • Pizza 4P's (Japanese-Italian fusion, wildly popular)
- • Bistrot Langka (French bistro in a colonial villa)
Reservations are essential for high-end places like Cuisine Wat Damnak, often weeks in advance.
Cafes & Bakeries
- • Brown Coffee (local chain with excellent brews and pastries)
- • Backyard Cafe (plant-filled oasis with healthy options)
- • The Shop (for fresh bread, sandwiches, and cakes in a French-style bakery)
Cafes are popular workspaces. Ordering just a drink is fine, and free Wi-Fi is standard.
Populaire Auprès
Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh
Spring
March to May is the hot, dry season. Temperatures soar, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), with intense sun and high humidity. The city is less crowded with tourists.
Pros:
- + Lowest chance of rain
- + Good hotel availability and potential deals
- + Clear skies for photography
Cons:
- - Extremely hot and humid, can be oppressive for sightseeing
- - Higher risk of heat exhaustion
- - Vegetation can be dry and dusty
Summer
June to August marks the start of the rainy season. Days are still hot (around 32°C/90°F), but heavy, short downpours typically occur in the late afternoon or evening, cooling things off.
Pros:
- + Lush, green landscapes
- + Dramatic skies and spectacular sunsets
- + Fewer tourists than peak season
Cons:
- - Sudden, torrential rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- - High humidity persists
- - Some rural day trips may become muddy or difficult
Autumn
September to November sees the tail end of the rains, tapering off through October. Humidity remains high, but temperatures begin to moderate slightly.
Pros:
- + The countryside is at its most vibrant and green
- + Water levels in the Tonlé Sap are high, ideal for river trips
- + A transitional period with lower crowds
Cons:
- - Unpredictable weather with a mix of sun and showers
- - Potential for occasional flooding in parts of the city
- - Still quite humid
Winter
December to February is the cool, dry peak season. With temperatures a pleasant 25-30°C (77-86°F), low humidity, and virtually no rain, this is the most comfortable time for exploration.
Pros:
- + Perfect weather for temple visits and walking tours
- + Clear, sunny days and cool evenings
- + All outdoor activities and day trips are easily accessible
Cons:
- - Highest tourist crowds and prices for flights/accommodation
- - Need to book hotels and popular tours well in advance
- - Cooler mornings and evenings may require a light layer
Trouvez un transport pas cher vers Phnom Penh
Comparez les prix des trains, bus et vols vers Phnom Penh
Entrez votre ville de départ pour voir les prix
Réserver des Activités à Phnom Penh
Évitez la file avec des visites et attractions pré-réservées
Day Trips from Phnom Penh
Oudong
1.5 hours by car/tuk-tuk
The former royal capital of Cambodia, Oudong is a serene hilltop complex of stupas and temples offering panoramic views of the plains. It's a deeply spiritual site for Cambodians and a peaceful escape from the city.
Koh Dach (Silk Island)
30-45 minutes by tuk-tuk + 5-minute ferry
A rustic island in the Mekong River where life moves at a slower pace. It's famous for its traditional silk-weaving villages, where you can see the entire process from silkworm to finished scarf.
Phnom Chisor
2 hours by car
An 11th-century Angkorian temple ruin perched on a hill, offering a more intimate and less-crowded alternative to the temples of Siem Reap. The climb up the ancient steps is rewarded with stunning views and well-preserved sandstone carvings.
Phnom Penh Budget Guide
Phnom Penh is an extremely affordable destination for most travelers, with costs significantly lower than Western or other major Asian capitals. Backpackers can live on very little, while luxury is available for a fraction of the price elsewhere.
Budget
$20-35 for budget travelers (dorm bed, street food, local transport, free sights)
per day
Mid-Range
$50-100 for mid-range (private room in a guesthouse/hotel, restaurant meals, some guided tours, tuk-tuks)
per day
Luxury
$150+ for luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private drivers, premium experiences)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Street food and local eateries cost $1-3 per meal. Restaurant meals range from $5-15.
- •Tuk-tuk rides within the city center should cost $2-5. Use PassApp/Grab for best prices.
- •Entrance fees for major sights are modest: Royal Palace $10, Tuol Sleng $5, National Museum $10.
- •Bargain at markets, but not in fixed-price shops or restaurants. A polite negotiation is expected for souvenirs and transport.
- •Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service, especially in tourist-oriented businesses. 5-10% is generous.
Phnom Penh Hidden Gems
Wat Langka
One of Phnom Penh's five original pagodas, located in a quiet compound near the Independence Monument. It's a working monastery and meditation center.
It's a serene, authentic escape from the tourist trail just minutes from bustling BKK1. You can often see monks going about their daily routines, and the temple architecture is beautiful and peaceful.
The Vintage Shop at Russian Market
Tucked in a corner of the Russian Market, this small stall is packed with genuine vintage items from Cambodia's recent past.
You can find unique souvenirs like old film cameras, Khmer Rouge-era banknotes, vintage propaganda posters, and antique jewelry—far more interesting than mass-produced trinkets.
Bassac Lane
A tiny, hidden alleyway in BKK1 that transforms at night into a vibrant strip of minuscule, themed cocktail bars and eateries.
It has an incredible speakeasy vibe. Each bar has only a handful of seats, creating an intimate, local, and hip atmosphere perfect for bar-hopping in a unique setting.
Catholic Church of St. Joseph
A striking, salmon-painted Catholic church built in the 1960s, standing as a rare example of modernist architecture in the city.
Its bold, angular design is completely unexpected in Phnom Penh and offers a fascinating contrast to the French colonial and traditional Khmer architecture. It's rarely visited by tourists.
Koh Oknha Tei (Mekong Island)
A larger, less-visited island in the Mekong upstream from the city, known for its pottery villages and quiet rural life.
It offers a more extensive and authentic rural cycling experience than Koh Dach, with even fewer visitors. You can watch artisans throwing traditional clay pots and explore untouched villages.
Phnom Penh Culture & Customs
Cambodian culture is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes respect, humility, and non-confrontation. The traumatic Khmer Rouge period is an indelible part of the national psyche, approached with somber respect. Family and community are central, and a gentle, smiling demeanor (the famous 'Khmer smile') is a cornerstone of social interaction.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always use your right hand, or both hands, to give or receive items, especially money. The left hand is considered unclean.
- •Never touch anyone on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
- •Remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a temple (wat), and sometimes even shops. Look for piles of shoes at the entrance.
- •Dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs are often available for rent at temple entrances.
- •Show respect to monks. Women should not touch monks or hand objects directly to them (place it on a table or have a man pass it).
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Phnom Penh
Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists?
Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, with violent crime being rare. The main risks are petty theft (bag snatching from motorbikes, especially at night) and opportunistic scams. Exercise normal precautions: don't flash valuables, be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, use ride-hailing apps for transport at night, and keep bags secure and away from the street side.
Do I need a visa for Cambodia?
Most nationalities require a visa. You can obtain a 30-day Tourist Visa (T-class) on arrival at Phnom Penh Airport for $30 (bring a passport photo) or apply online for an e-Visa ($36) before you travel. The e-Visa is also valid at Siem Reap Airport and major land borders. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
Is it difficult to visit the Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields?
Emotionally, yes, it can be very difficult and harrowing. Physically, it's straightforward. It's highly recommended to visit Tuol Sleng (S-21) first, then the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, as it provides chronological context. Consider hiring an audio guide ($5) at each site for a deeply moving, personal narrative. Allow several hours for both, and plan for a quiet, reflective time afterwards.
Can I drink the tap water?
No, you cannot drink the tap water in Phnom Penh. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most hotels and guesthouses provide free bottled water. Ice in established restaurants and bars is generally made with purified water and is safe, but be cautious with ice from street stalls. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as a precaution.
What's the best way to get around the city?
The best and most convenient way for tourists is to use ride-hailing apps like PassApp or Grab. They offer fixed fares for tuk-tuks and cars, eliminating negotiation. For short distances in walkable areas like the Riverside, walking is fine. Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for a half or full day of sightseeing is also a popular and affordable option ($15-25).
How should I dress when visiting temples?
Dress modestly out of respect. This means covering your shoulders and knees for both men and women. Light, loose-fitting long pants or skirts and tops with sleeves are ideal. Sarongs and scarves are often available for rent or purchase at major temple entrances if you arrive unprepared. Remove your hat and shoes before entering temple buildings.
Is English widely spoken?
English is reasonably widely spoken in the tourist areas of Phnom Penh, including hotels, restaurants, and major attractions. Tuk-tuk drivers and market vendors will know basic transactional English. Learning a few Khmer phrases (like hello and thank you) is greatly appreciated. In more local areas, communication may require gestures and patience.
What is the electrical plug type and voltage?
Cambodia uses 230V electricity with a frequency of 50Hz. The plug types are most commonly Type A (two flat pins, like the US/Japan) and Type C (two round pins, like Europe). Many sockets accept both types. It's advisable to bring a universal travel adapter, as some older places may have only one type.
Phnom Penh Itinéraires
Guides de Voyage
Comparer avec D'autres Villes
Planifiez votre aventure à Phnom Penh
Laissez l'IA créer l'itinéraire parfait pour votre voyage à Phnom Penh. Décrivez simplement ce que vous voulez vivre.
Planifier Phnom Penh