Top 10 Cambodian Markets：Happy Hunting Ground for Collectors

When it comes to shopping, Cambodia offers a vibrant and diverse market scene that attracts tourists from around the world. From bustling city markets to traditional rural bazaars, Cambodia has something for everyone. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Cambodian markets.

Quick Facts

1. Markets serve as vital hubs for trade, social interactions, and cultural experiences.
2. Cambodia boasts various market types, including traditional markets, night markets, floating markets, and art and craft markets.
3. The Central Market in Phnom Penh is one of the largest and most iconic markets in Cambodia.

Reasons for Visiting a Nearby Market

Exploring local markets in Cambodia offers a multitude of reasons, such as:
1. Discovering unique handicrafts, textiles, and artwork.
2. Sampling delicious local street food and traditional snacks.
3. Interacting with friendly locals and experiencing their hospitality.

Cambodia food vendors

Anticipating Your Market Visit

When you visit a market in Cambodia, you can expect:
1. A wide range of goods, including fresh produce, spices, textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
2. A sensory experience with aromatic scents, lively chatter, and vibrant displays.
3. Opportunities to practice your bargaining skills and secure the best deals.

Phnom Penh Markets

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is a city that has rich history and beautiful nature. There are lots of things to do in Phnom Penh. If you plan to go shopping there, here are some notable markets to explore:

Top 1
Central Market

Central Market, Phnom Penh

Originally designed by urban architecture, Jean Desbois, this bright yellow building was completed in 1937. It is a market and decorative art landmark in Phnom Penh, where there is a spacious corridor with countless stalls and various commodities.

Location: At the intersection of Street 126 and Street 53 [Central Market]
Open hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
What to buy:
Jewelry
Khmer silk fabrics
Cambodian artwork
Cambodian coffee beans
Khloy (bamboo flute)

Top 2
Russian Market

A Cambodian woman is shoping at Russian Market, Phnom Penh

The reason why it is called Russian market is because it was a popular market among the Russian expats during the 1980s when most of the western expats in Phnom Penh were Russian.

Location: You can find the market along Street 440 and Street 163 [Russian Market]
Open hours: 6:00 am – 4:30 pm (day-off on Wednesdays)
What to buy:
Home decorative items
Souvenirs and gifts
Traditional Cambodian crafts
Vintage items
Custom-made clothing

Top 3
Night Market along the Riverside

Phnom Penh Night Market at dusk

Traditionally, Phnom Penh had daytime markets that catered to the needs of the local population. However, it started to gain much popularity in the late 2000s. It provides an opportunity for visitors to experience LIVELY nightlife in Phnom Penh.

Location: Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh [Night Market]
Open hours: 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
What to buy:
Fabrics
Jewelry
Handicrafts

Siem Reap Martkets

Siem Reap, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor temples, is also a popular holy land for tourists. Except its famous Angkor Wat tour, it has its share of vibrant markets as well:

Top 4
Old Market

Old Market vintage items

Locally known as Psar Chas, it is the oldest Khmer market in Siem Reap and a must-visit for those looking to experience the local lifesyle. The open air market is covered by a massive roof, offering ample shade from the sun.

Location: Along Street 9 (main entrance) and Street 11 [Old Market]
Open hours: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm (some stores till 11:00 pm)
What to buy:
Fresh produce and flowers
Handmade textiles
Cambodian art
Tropical fruits
Vintage collectibles

Top 5
Angkor Night Market

Angkor Night Market

Located in downtown Siem Reap, this outdoor market was established in 2007 to help preserve traditional Khmer handicrafts and improve the lives of Khmer people.

Location: Siwatha Street near Pi Thnou Street [Angkor Night Market]
Open hours: 4:00 pm – mid-night
What to buy:
Cambodian handicrafts
Clothing and accessories
Postcards and trinkets
Traditional Cambodian garment

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Sihanoukville Martket

Sihanoukville, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, is a pleasant place for Cambodia islands tour. It also has its own market experiences:

Top 6
Phsar Leu

A shop for household items in Phsar Leu

This is a very large local market in Sihanoukville. It is also renowned as the Upper Market, since it is located in the area, which contains the Wat Leu or the Upper Pagoda Temple.

Location: 7 Makara Street, Preah Sihanouk [Phsar Leu]
Open hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm (people usually stay here for 15 minutes to 1 hour)
What to buy:
Seafood (crabs, fish, shrimp, etc.)
Traditional Cambodian medicines and herbs
Household items (baskets, kitchenware, ceramics, etc.)
Krama and other Khmer textiles

Battambang Market

When it comes to Battambang, people always think of the bamboo train experience there. Founded in the 11^th century by the Khmer Empire, Battambang is the main hub of the Northwest connecting the entire region with Phnom Penh and Thailand, and as such it is a vital link to Cambodia. And it also offers unique market encounters:

Top 7
Phsar Nath

Early morning in Phsar Nath

Phsar Nath was built in 1936, a well-designed Art Deco structure during French rule. It is a market catering for locals and offers a glimpse at what Khmer people purchase and shop for a daily basis.

Location: Near the intersection of Street 2.5 and Street 2.5A [Phsar Nath]
Open hours: 6:00 am - late
What to buy:
Fruits and vegetables
Local delicacies
Electronics and gadgets

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Kampot Market

Kampot is located in the southern part of Cambodia. It is internationally acclaimed for its high-quality pepper. The city is also surrounded by picturesque lush green countryside, rolling hills, and the majestic Bokor Mountain range. In Kampot, there is also a renowned market:

Top 8
Samaki Market

72 years old grandma serves various kinds of breakfast

It is a popular local market located in the town of Kampot for its bustling atmosphere and a wide range of products available for purchase.

Location: Near the Durian Roundabout, along National Road 3 [Samaki Market]
Open hours: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm (people usually stay here for 25 minutes, often busy at 9:00 am)
What to buy:
Local snacks and beverages
Fresh food
Local spices and herbs
Festival decorations

Kampong Cham Market

Kampong Cham, a tranquil riverside town, is situated on the eastern bank of the Mekong River, northeast of Phnom Penh. Bamboo bridge is one unique features of this city, where visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Mekong River.

Top 9
Kampong Cham Market

Shopping for local clothes in kampong cham market

It has a gaudy look similar to that of the Central Market in Phnom Penh. The large lemon and white pavilion houses a knot of undercover stalls, selling clothing and haberdashery.

Location: Along National Road 7, near the intersection with Street 62 [Kampong Cham Market]
Open hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
What to buy:
Dried seafood (squid, shrimps, etc.)
Fruits and vegetables
Grilled fish and skewered meats

Kratie Market

Kratie is a tiny town that is the home to Irrawaddy dolphins. Visitors usually choose a kayaking tour to see the rare Irrawaddy at their natural habitat. To do shopping, here is a popular local market in Kratie:

Top 10
Kratie Market

Local people hang around Kratie Market

The Kratie market is right in the thick of things, just a block from the river. It is the usual all-purpose variety with local shops dealing with the local daily consumer products.

Location: Along National Road 7, near the intersection with Street 11 [Kratie Market]
Open hours: usually 6:00 am – 6:00 pm
What to buy:
Seafood (prawns, crabs, and other aquatic delicacies)
Fresh vegetables
Rice and grains
Cambodian food (noodle soups, spring rolls, fried snacks and desserts, etc.)

Tips for Visiting Markets in Cambodia

To make the most of your market experience in Cambodia, keep these tips in mind:

Best time to visit:
Mornings are ideal when markets are bustling with activity and fresh produce. But it might be crowded as well. You can go there in the late afternoon if you prefer quietness.
Purchasing tips:
Carry small bills and be prepared to haggle for better prices. Compare prices before making a purchase.
Security:
Keep a close eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded markets.
Bartering:
Bartering is a common practice in Cambodian markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate for a fair price.
Finding what you want:
Explore the market thoroughly, interact with vendors, and ask for recommendations to find specific items.

Visit Cambodia with Us

We offer comprehensive tour packages to Cambodia, including guided visits to famous markets, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Experience the best of Cambodia's markets while enjoying personalized services and expert insights.

Best wishes for your Cambodian market adventures! To learn more information or tailor your Cambodia tour, please feel free to contact us!