A 2-Day Itinerary for Culture, Relaxation, and Local Flavor
Phnom Penh, the lively capital of Cambodia, is a city of contrasts: centuries-old temples rise beside modern shopping centers, and traditional markets thrive near luxurious casinos. If you’re visiting for the weekend, this 2-day itinerary will guide you through ten must-do experiences to fully immerse yourself in the city’s charm, history, and vibrant lifestyle.
DAY 1 – Culture, Spirituality & Shopping
Morning: Discovering the Heart of Phnom Penh
1. Visit the Royal Palace
Start your day at the iconic Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s most impressive landmarks. The complex is a gleaming example of classic Khmer architecture, with golden roofs, ornate gates, and manicured gardens. Inside, you’ll find the Silver Pagoda, named for its floor covered in over 5,000 silver tiles. Don’t miss the life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with over 9,500 diamonds. Go early to avoid the heat and crowds.
2. Explore Wat Phnom
Just a short tuk-tuk ride from the palace is Wat Phnom, a peaceful hilltop pagoda that gave the city its name. Surrounded by trees and legends, it’s a favorite for locals making offerings for good luck. Climb the stairs to the temple and take in views of the surrounding city. It’s a serene escape right in the urban center.
Lunch Break
Head to the Riverside district, where you can enjoy Khmer fusion dishes with views of the Tonlé Sap river. Many cafés offer shaded outdoor seating and a relaxed vibe.
Afternoon: Indulgence & Retail Therapy
3. Go Shopping at AEON Mall
Escape the afternoon heat at AEON Mall, Phnom Penh’s top shopping destination. It features international fashion brands, a wide variety of food courts, a cinema, a supermarket, and entertainment options. It’s ideal if you’re craving air conditioning and a modern retail experience.
4. Experience Luxury at NagaWorld
For a more upscale experience, visit NagaWorld, a luxury hotel and casino complex with designer boutiques, high-end dining, and a vibrant gaming floor. Even if you’re not into gambling, it’s worth a look for its grand interior and atmosphere. Many tourists also come here for live performances and cocktails at one of its stylish lounges.
Evening: The Golden Hour on the Water
5. Take a Sunset Cruise on the Mekong
As the day winds down, head to the riverfront to board a sunset cruise. Several operators offer 1- to 2-hour boat rides along the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It’s a relaxing way to see the city skyline, floating villages, and royal landmarks from a new perspective. Some cruises include cocktails, snacks, or even dinner.
DAY 2 – History, Reflection & Local Life
Morning: Facing the Past
6. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Begin your second day with a visit to Tuol Sleng, a former high school turned prison and interrogation center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Now a museum, it tells a sobering story of Cambodia’s recent past through photos, survivor accounts, and preserved cells. It’s a difficult but essential stop for understanding the resilience of the Cambodian people.
7. Discover Cambodian Art at the National Museum
Next, walk or tuk-tuk to the nearby National Museum, housed in a beautiful terracotta building. Inside, you’ll find the country’s largest collection of Khmer art and artifacts, from prehistoric times to the post-Angkor era. Highlights include ancient sandstone sculptures and ceremonial objects that reveal the richness of Cambodian heritage.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a scenic meal on Koh Pich (Diamond Island), a newly developed area with riverside restaurants, open-air cafés, and family-friendly parks. It’s a peaceful spot for a mid-day break.
Afternoon: Symbols & Modern Phnom Penh
8. Snap Photos at the Independence Monument
Standing at the intersection of Norodom and Sihanouk Boulevards, this lotus-shaped monument commemorates Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule. It’s especially beautiful when lit up at night. The nearby park area is ideal for a walk or bike ride.
9. Stroll through Bassac Lane and Koh Pich
Bassac Lane is a trendy enclave filled with cozy bars, street art, and boutique eateries. It’s popular among expats and young locals, offering a different vibe from the tourist-heavy areas. Combine it with a walk along Koh Pich to enjoy modern Phnom Penh’s growing urban culture.
Evening: Celebrate the Weekend with Locals
10. Explore the Riverside Walking Street (Weekend Only)
Wrap up your weekend with a walk along Riverside Walking Street, open on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Here, the promenade comes alive with food stalls, street performers, and local families out for the evening. It’s the perfect place to sample local snacks, buy souvenirs, or simply soak in the weekend atmosphere.
Where to Stay
Stay central to make the most of your Phnom Penh weekend. Claudio’s Home Stay offers modern, comfortable apartments within easy reach of the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re here to explore history or relax by the river, you’ll find the ideal base for your adventures.
Book your stay today at claudiohomestay.com