2 day itinerary for Phnom Penh

Itinerary

Phnom Penh is a vibrant city rich in history and art, and I’m excited to help you plan your two-day adventure. Let’s dive right in!

## Day 1: Historical Exploration

Morning:

• Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda: Start your day at the stunning Royal Palace, a beautiful example of Khmer architecture. Don’t miss the Silver Pagoda, which houses a stunning collection of gold and jeweled Buddha statues. The grounds are serene, and you can soak in the history of the Cambodian monarchy.

Lunch:

• Friends Restaurant: After your royal visit, head to Friends Restaurant, a social enterprise that trains marginalized youth in hospitality. The food is delicious, and you can enjoy a mix of Cambodian and international dishes.

Afternoon:

• National Museum of Cambodia: Post-lunch, make your way to the National Museum. It’s a treasure trove of Khmer art and artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Cambodia. The building itself is a work of art, with beautiful traditional architecture and a lovely courtyard.

Evening:

• Wat Phnom: As the sun begins to set, visit Wat Phnom, the tallest religious structure in the city. It’s a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the view. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, and you can learn about the legend of its founding.

Dinner:

• Khmer Surin: For dinner, indulge in some traditional Khmer cuisine at Khmer Surin. The ambiance is cozy, and the food is authentic. Try the fish amok, a local favorite!

## Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Start your day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). It’s a sobering but essential part of Cambodia’s history. The museum is housed in a former school that was turned into a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. Take your time to absorb the stories and exhibits.

Lunch:

• Cafe Yejj: After such a heavy morning, head to Cafe Yejj for a light lunch. They offer a variety of healthy options and a great atmosphere to recharge.

Afternoon:

• Phnom Penh Art Scene: Spend your afternoon exploring the local art scene. Visit the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center, which showcases Cambodian films and art. You can also check out The Factory, a contemporary art space that often hosts exhibitions and events.

• Street Art Tour: If you’re up for it, consider a guided street art tour. Phnom Penh has a growing street art scene, and it’s a fantastic way to see the city while appreciating local artists’ work.

Evening:

• Sunset Cruise on the Mekong River: To wrap up your trip, take a sunset cruise on the Mekong River. It’s a beautiful way to see the city from a different perspective, and you can enjoy the stunning sunset over the water.

Dinner:

• Romdeng: For your final dinner, head to Romdeng, another social enterprise restaurant. The ambiance is lovely, and you can try some unique dishes, including fried tarantula if you’re feeling adventurous!

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking.
• Stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months.
• Don’t forget your camera; there are plenty of Instagram-worthy spots!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your two days in Phnom Penh! Enjoy your historical and artistic journey through this beautiful city!