The capital, Phnom Penh, is an inexhaustibly hardworking city where the locals work diligently to provide opportunity for their families. However, this work ethic has very little effect on the charmingly pleasant demeanor and relaxed vibe of the capital city. The locals often take to the riverfront boardwalks and busy markets to socialize, relax and make time for their friends and families. The city is situated at the confluence of the Tonle Sap, Bassac, and Mekong rivers; the streets are broad, tree-lined boulevards, and there's a noticeable openness to the city as highrise buildings have yet to completely dominate its skyline. Used as a stopover by most travellers, Phnom Penh is a city worth at least a few days of your time to explore the old markets and cultural sights.

The most common tourist trail in the city is mainly centred around the river boardwalk that runs along the Tonle Sap river. From here you can easily access Wat Phnom, Central Market, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and most of the museums, restaurants, shops, and all things touristy; it is quite a manageable city to cycle. Just outside Phnom Penh there are numerous sights and attractions that are well worth the visit and a local tour is the best way to help you get there.

The silk islands are located in the middle of the mighty Mekong and they offer an unusually rural vibe as quaint villagers tend to the fields and live a slower pace of life just a few kilometers away from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. The fabled ‘Killing Fields’ museum and monument lie just south of the city; visitors are strongly encouraged by the government of Cambodia to visit as a reminder of the horrific legacy left by the Khmer Rouge. There are multiple tour operators in Phnom Penh that offer everything from long distance trips to Siem Reap, Hoi An, Began and beyond, and local tours that will take you through the back alleys and side streets of the busy capital, making Phnom Penh one of the easiest and most culturally rich cities to explore in all of Asia.

Best Seasons:Nov - Feb
Popular Locations:Riverfront Promenade, Killing Fields, Wat Phnom, Silk Islands