Things to Do in Phnom Penh for A Week: Craft Your Perfect Itinerary

If you're thinking about spending a week in Phnom Penh, the Capital of Cambodia, it might feel a bit long if you're just sticking to the city. But Phnom Penh, once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ is more than that - it’s full of history and culture, and it’s a great base for exploring nearby beaches or rural areas. Add some extra adventures, and it’ll be the perfect trip!

In this article guide, we will help you plan 7 days in Phnom Penh, with all the must-see spots in the city and nearby areas, including history, culture, nature, shopping, and nightlife.

3 Days Are Enough in Phnom Penh City: 6 Must-Do Things

3 days is the perfect amount of time to experience the top attractions of Phnom Penh without feeling rushed. From visiting iconic landmarks to soaking in the local vibe, here are 6 must-do things to make the most of your 3-day stay in this Capital city.

Visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Learn about the tragic modern history of Cambodia at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields just outside the city.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is on the site of Security Prison 21 (S-21), a former high school used as a re-education camp where thousands were tortured and killed under the Khmer Rouge regime.

The Choeung Ek Genocide Center, 17 km south of the city center, is one of the best-known killing fields in Cambodia preserved to honor the memory of the people who were killed during the Cambodian Genocide from 1975 to 1979.

At both sites, memorials and exhibits display the history of the tragic events to educate visitors. Guided tours are strongly recommended to learn more about the background of the events and how Cambodia has moved forward since that time. Tickets for Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek cost 5 USD and 6 USD, respectively.

Choeung Ek Genocide Center preserves the memory of killed Cambodians.

Discover Cambodia National Museum
The National Museum of Cambodia is the largest museum of Cambodian cultural history, with an extensive collection of Khmer artifacts.

Founded in 1920, there are sculptures from Angkor Wat, ceramics, and ethnographic artifacts from the prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, Angkorian, and post-Angkorian periods. Tickets cost 10 USD, and guided tours are available in English, French, and Japanese. The museum is located in downtown Phnom Penh.

The beautiful red exterior of the Cambodia National Museum.

Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda stand out in the city with their glittering appearance and manicured gardens. Adjacent to each other, the two complexes cover over 174,000 square meters with breathtaking Khmer architecture and lush greenery.

Built-in the 14th century, the Silver Pagoda gets its name from the 5,329 silver tiles inlaid on the floor. The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia and the best example of traditional imperial architecture. Tickets cost 10 USD for the Royal Palace and 3 USD for the Silver Pagoda.

The glittering appearance of Cambodia Royal Palace.

6 Days Best of Cambodia Tour Package

Siem Reap - Phnom Penh

Eat & Shop at Phnom Penh Central Market & Russian Market
Phnom Penh Central Market is an icon in the city, built in an art-deco-style building under a large central dome. It's a very tourist-friendly Cambodian market with many English-speaking vendors selling souvenirs, electronics, and local goods.

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, it's open every day from 07:00-18:00. Head to the back of the market on Street 67 to find great street food, from noodles to baguettes and fresh fruit.

If you just want to look over a local market in Cambodia, you can visit one of these two. To avoid the crowds, it's better to go in the afternoon before 5:00 pm.

The Russian Market is a unique shopping experience with over 400 shops selling everything from food and spices to souvenirs and antiques.

It's about a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride from the Riverside area and is open every day from 06:30-17:00. The market is popular for bargain hunting and the best place to find truly unique local handicrafts and goods for sale.

Kinds of goods are selling in Phnom Penh Central Market.

Cruise Down the Mekong River to Enjoy the sunset
Mekong River cruises are a relaxing way to enjoy the picturesque sunsets and socialize with other travelers. For as low as 16 USD, cruises sail to the best vantage points for panoramic views, offering unlimited beer and soft drinks.

Explore places like Tonle Sap Lake, the Four Faces River, Diamond Island, and local fishing villages. Some ships have live music or traditional performances, and English guides to introduce the sights and their history.

Take a Mekong River cruise to enjoy a stunning sunset in Phnom Penh.

15 Days Exploration Tour of Cambodia

Phnom Penh - Kampot - Sihanoukville - Siem Reap

Enjoy Phnom Penh's Vibrant Nightlife
Phnom Penh has some of the best nightlife in Cambodia, with rooftop bars, live music venues, restaurants, and cocktail lounges. The Riverside area is the heart of activity after sundown, with clubs like the Pontoon Nightclub and Heart of Darkness offering an exciting mix of local and international music.

Enjoy traditional Apsara dance shows at the National Museum or the street food at the Phnom Penh Night Market. For a quieter experience, try the Cadillac Bar & Manhattan Lounge or Foreign Correspondents' Club to enjoy upscale cocktails and chic surroundings.

Watching Apsara show is a unique travel experience in Cambodia.

2 Days to Explore Phnom Penh Surroundings: 4 Top Recommendations

The surrounding areas of Phnom Penh offer a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation. With just 2 days, you can discover hidden gems and enjoy a more laid-back side of Cambodia. Here are 4 top recommendations to make the most of your short escape from the city!

(22km) Take a Boat Ride to Silk Island to gain an insight into Cambodia's Silk Industry
Traditional silk weaving is an ancient practice that takes place on Koh Dach, known as Silk Island. A little over an hour from Phnom Penh, the peaceful retreat can be reached by a short ferry ride.

Explore the silk-weaving villages and serene pagodas on a day trip. It's a great place to buy handmade souvenirs or to relax by the river and take in the natural beauty of the Mekong River.

There are many home-grown silk workshops in Koh Dach.

(42km) Phnom Tamao Rescue Center Discovery
The Phnom Tamao Rescue Center is part of Cambodia's dedicated conservation efforts. It was established as a center for animals rescued from illegal wildlife traders and covers an area of 2,500 hectares with natural habitats for over 1,200 animals, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, and sun bears.

Half-day, full-day, and overnight tours are available. It's located around 40 km south of Phnom Penh, easily reachable by taxi or tuk-tuk in 45-60 minutes.

Kinds of animals have gained well-protection in Phnom Tamao Rescue Center.

(45km) Visit Oudong - Peaceful Place of Worship in Cambodia
Visting Oudong is like stepping back into early Cambodian history. Founded in 1601 at the base of Phnom Udong Mountain 40 km north of Phnom Penh, it is home to hundreds of stupas and ancient Khmer temples.

The large stupa on the highest point of the mountain is believed to hold a relic of Buddha and is a beautiful example of Khmer architecture.

It is an important place of worship where you can see local monks engaged in daily rituals, surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and forests. The peaceful atmosphere offers an enriching experience, perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.

10 Days Cambodian Panoramic Overland Tour

Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville - Koh Rong Island

(75km) Phnom Penh to Takeo Weaving Village
90 minutes south of Phnom Penh, Takeo Weaving Village is a unique social enterprise set up to preserve the traditional craft.

The Weavers Project is a cooperative set up amidst the area's famous rice paddies. Local artisans work on frame looms, making beautiful textiles. Tours of the village help support the project, and a family homestay is available for overnight visitors.

Exquisite hand-made Cambodian textiles with different patterns.

2-Day Beach Relaxing Trips: 2 Top Recommendations

For the remaining 2 days of Phnom Penh tour in a week, a beach getaway is the perfect way to unwind. Just a short trip from the city, you can enjoy some relaxation by the sea. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a lively beach vibe, here are 2 top recommendations for a refreshing 2-day beach escape to complete your week-long adventure!

Phnom Penh – Kep – Kampot
A two-day trip from Phnom Penh can take you to the beautiful natural surroundings of Kep and Kampot. Kep is a quiet coastal area where you can unwind while exploring the rural countryside of rice paddies and salt fields. Relax on the quiet beaches and visit the bustling crab market for delicious seafood.

Kampot is most famous for its riverside setting and pepper plantations. See the whole cultivation process of the famous pepper, and enjoy the local food. It is also the gateway to Bokor National Park, a cool retreat from the hot tropical weather.

Located atop Bokor Mountain, it was originally built as a luxury escape during the French colonial period. Trek the beautiful hiking trails, take a boat ride on Bokor Lake, and explore Bokor Hill Station.

Relaxing on Kep beach and enjoying the picturesque sunset.

15 Days Cambodia Historical Tour with Beach Relax

Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnom Penh - Kampot - Sihanoukville

Phnom Penh – Sihanuokville – Koh Rong Island
If the beach is your main focus, then escape to Sihanoukville for two days of sun, sea, and sand. It's the county's premier beach resort town with pristine sands and nearby tropical islands.

Along Ochheuteal Beach and Otres Beach, you'll find thatch-roofed seafood shacks and bars offering cold drinks, BBQ, and freshly caught seafood. Go boating to Koh Rong Island, scuba diving, or take a swim in the calm waters. Accommodations range from 5-star resorts to clean and comfortable budget accommodations.

Relaxing on Koh Rong Island beach to enjoy the pristine sand.

A Week is the Perfect Time to Explore the Best of Cambodia

In fact, if you have a week in Cambodia, it's the perfect time to explore everything our country has to offer, including the famous Siem Reap, which is a must-visit for everyone. Especially if it's your first time traveling, we highly recommend the following itinerary.

Start with two days in Siem Reap and discover the temples at Angkor Wat. Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Site before dawn to witness the stunning sunrise over the reflecting pool, and then explore the temples along the Grand Circuit for the most iconic Sites.

Then, head to Phnom Penh for two days, where you can soak up the history and culture of Cambodia’s vibrant capital. Ride a tuk-tuk to see the Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace, then visit the National Museum to see the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculptures and artifacts. At night, take a sunset cruise exploring the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Four Faces Rivers.

Cap off your tour with three days to unwind and relax in Sihanoukville and Koh Rong Island. After arriving at the beach resort town, a one-hour boat ride will take you to Koh Rong. The island’s dense jungle and soft white sands are the perfect escape. Take it moment to moment with no fixed itinerary.

Koh Rong Island is a paradise for snorkeling.

7 Days Cambodia Mysteries Discovery Tour with Beach Relaxing

Siem Reap - Koh Rong Island

More Insider Tips for What to Do in Phnom Penh

- The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season from November to May. Cooler temperatures and low rainfall are the most comfortable conditions for enjoying the outdoors.
- Visit during a traditional festival for a unique cultural experience. Khmer New Year (April 14-16, 2025) and the Water Festival (November 4-6, 2025) are two of the best, with many activities taking place in the city.
- Bargaining is expected when shopping at local markets. Stay friendly, but don't accept the first price you're told.
- Be ready for tropical weather. Make sure to use sun protection and stay hydrated when exploring outdoors.
- Modest clothing is needed for visiting spiritual sites and the Royal Palace. Make sure your knees and shoulders are covered, and remove any headwear before entering.

4 Days Taste of Cambodian New Year Tour

Siem Reap

Conclusion

Start planning your tour of Cambodia with the must-do attractions in the city, visit the surrounding area to experience facets of traditional life, and then finish your trip with a visit to the beautiful natural surroundings of Kampot or Koh Rong Island.

One week is enough to see many of the country's highlights and have a deep impression of local culture and history on an unforgettable tour. Private and small group tours can be personalized to create the perfect itinerary. Our professional travel consultants are experts at crafting the best experience for each traveler. Contact us anytime to start planning your Phnom Penh tour today.