Striking pagodas, historic monuments, and bustling markets await you in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital and former seat of the Khmer Empire on the banks of the Mekong River. South of the country’s iconic Angkor Wat temple, Phnom Penh is the perfect urban center to begin your adventures in Cambodia!

Though less frequented than Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh boasts beautiful Buddhist temples of its own. From Wat Phnom, the towering pagoda surrounding by an exquisite botanical garden, to the sparkling Silver Pagoda, which lies mere steps from the city’s golden Royal Palace, Phnom Penh offers plenty of spiritual landmarks ideal for reflection and guaranteed to leave you in awe. Travel two blocks from the Silver Pagoda to visit the bright red National Museum of Cambodia, which holds thousands of centuries-old Cambodian artifacts and will immerse you in the history of Khmer culture.

Phnom Penh’s dark (and fairly recent) past still haunts some of its most visited landmarks. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are vital pieces of this city’s history and detail the brutal effects of the Khmer Rouge’s occupation of Phnom Penh after the Cambodian War. These essential monuments will give you a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the city as it stands today.

After exploring Phnom Penh’s famous monuments, take time to unwind and savor the city’s vibrant social life! Eat your way through the Phnom Penh Street Market to enjoy amazing street food, browse the Old Market for fresh and local fruits, or sit in one of the city’s many restaurants or distilleries to taste fresh made noodles and sweet rum.