Explore Phnom Penh City Tour By Reviewing With Miss Mabel
Table of Contents
1. Why visit Phnom Penh city tour in 1 day?
After spending 14 days exploring Vietnam, I continued my journey with 10 days in Cambodia, discovering fantastic places that made my vacation truly unforgettable. However, it was my time in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, that left the most lasting impression. Spending just one day in Phnom Penh allowed me to experience a perfect blend of rich history, culture, and warmth from the locals. From exploring historical landmarks like the Killing Fields and the Royal Palace, to savoring the delicious local cuisine and enjoying the peaceful riverside views, Phnom Penh offered an enriching experience that I’ll never forget.
2. What to do in Phnom Penh 1 day?
During the Phnom Penh city tour, I visited Wat Phnom first, a big place named after Phnom Penh city. It's 27 meters high, the tallest spot around. It's the main temple in the capital and a special place that many tourists visit every year. The guide told me a lot about the history and beliefs of the Cambodian people.
Next, I visited Wat Ounalum, a Buddhist monastery serving as the headquarters for one of the most revered Buddhist sects in Cambodia.
In my memory, the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime are deeply etched when I visited the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school transformed into an interrogation prison known as S-21 during the Khmer Rouge era. Today, it serves as a serious reminder of the terrible crimes that happened during that dark period in Cambodian history. Walking through the narrow hallways and the haunting classrooms of this site, especially during the Phnom Penh city tour, immersed me in Cambodia's tumultuous past. The museum allows you to understand the pain that innocent Cambodians went through while being tortured on the museum grounds. I witnessed the documentation of the victims' stories and observed torture devices, including profound black-and-white photographs taken during the prisoners' time in the prison.
I went with the guide and my friend during the Phnom Penh day tours to have lunch at a famous and delicious Cambodian restaurant called Khmer Surin Restaurant. The restaurant has a beautiful view and cozy atmosphere which made me feel comfortable. I had the opportunity to enjoy the traditional dishes of the Khmer people.
>> Phnom Penh food tour
>> Phnom Penh what to do?
>> Best time to visit Cambodia
>> Phnom Penh travel guide
On one day in Phnom Penh, Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Ounalom, is one of the largest and most important pagodas in Phnom Penh. In the middle of the city, the Silver Pagoda has nice and holy buildings. It's where one of the top Buddhist groups in Cambodia works, and it keeps a lot of important cultural and spiritual things. Going to the Silver Pagoda helped me understand more about Buddhism in this country.
At the end of the Phnom Penh city tour day, we went to the National Museum, which had really cool Khmer art and statues from different times in Cambodia. I learned a lot about the country's rich culture.
The following circuits should be considered:
>> Cambodia itinerary 10 days
>> 9 days in Cambodia
>> Cambodia Packages Tours
3. How to make the most of your 1 day in Phnom Penh?
Here are some useful travel tips for spending one day in Phnom Penh:
- Start early: Begin your day early to make the most of your time. Visiting major landmarks like the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early will help you avoid crowds.
- Dress modestly: When visiting temples and cultural sites, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- Stay hydrated: The weather in Phnom Penh can be hot and humid. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Respect local customs: Always be respectful of local traditions. When entering religious sites, remove your shoes and avoid loud behavior.
- Pack light: Since you’ll be exploring a lot on foot, keep your bag light and only carry the essentials like sunscreen, a camera, and cash.
Mabel Amanda
To get around Phnom Penh in one day, the most convenient and popular options are tuk-tuks, taxis, and bicycles. Tuk-tuks are affordable, readily available, and provide a local experience while easily navigating the city’s streets. For a more comfortable and private ride, taxis are also an option, although they tend to be slightly more expensive. If you prefer a more eco-friendly and interactive mode of transport, you can rent a bicycle, which is ideal for exploring the city’s attractions at a relaxed pace. Many of Phnom Penh’s main sites, such as the Royal Palace and National Museum, are within a short distance of each other, making walking a viable option as well. Additionally, some travelers opt for guided tours, where transportation is included, ensuring you cover all the highlights efficiently within a day.
Yes, one day in Phnom Penh is enough to explore the key highlights. While the city has much to offer, a full day allows you to visit its most iconic attractions, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. You can also enjoy a stroll along the Mekong Riverfront, experience local markets, and sample authentic Cambodian cuisine. With careful planning and efficient transportation, you can cover a lot of ground and gain a solid understanding of the city's history, culture, and charm in just one day. However, if you're interested in exploring lesser-known spots or immersing yourself in more in-depth activities, you may want to consider extending your stay.
The best time to visit Phnom Penh for one day is during the dry season, which lasts from November to March. During this period, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city’s attractions. Temperatures are generally more comfortable, avoiding the intense heat and humidity of the wet season, which runs from May to October. Early mornings are particularly great for visiting popular sites like the Royal Palace and Killing Fields, as they are less crowded, and you can enjoy the cooler temperatures. Visiting during the dry season also means fewer rain interruptions, allowing you to make the most of your one-day trip.
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