Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history and culture, perfect for a long weekend getaway with the family from Singapore, or as part of a longer trip in the region. Here is a 3-day itinerary especially designed for young explorers, combining cultural visits, fun activities and relaxation.
Day 1: Discovering the Palace and the history of Phnom Penh with your family
Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. These magnificent places will amaze both young and old with their splendid architecture and surprising statues.
Tip: Be aware of guides outside the palace who might try to tell you it’s closed and offer you a different tour. Official guides are available at the entrance when you buy your tickets. We strongly recommend using them to better understand this place.
Cultural tour in a Tuk-Tuk in Phnom Penh with your family
Book a Phnom Penh Heritage Tour, a guided tour adapted for children (7 years old and up). The tour is done by tuk-tuk or electric minibus, so the children will be happy not to walk too much! Each person has a tablet serving as an audio guide, showing photos and videos of the different places.
Sunset cruise
End the day with a cruise on the Mekong River aboard the Kanika. It’s a great way to admire the city lights and relax with a drink. Children will love the nets at the front of the boat, but please supervise them as they are not very secure.
Day 2: Immerse yourself in local life
Bike tour on Silk Island in Phnom Penh with your family
Go on a bike ride to discover Silk Island. You will be able to observe local life and enjoy nature. Discova organizes bike tours adapted for young children, and the guide will help you better understand Cambodian culture and discover local crafts.
Wat Phnom
Visit Wat Phnom, one of the most important temples in Phnom Penh. According to legend, it was built on a hill where a woman found four Buddha statues. Although it’s small in size, it is very popular among Cambodians who come to pray. Discover the beautiful sculptures inside the temple.
Promenade night market
In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the Promenade. Admire the sunset over the Tonlé Sap River and experience the lively atmosphere of the city. Many small vendors offer snacks and drinks. You will also see many birdcages, as it is a Cambodian tradition to believe that if you buy a bird and it flies away, your wish will come true.
Day 3: Discover Animals in Cambodia and Help them
Book the “Behind the Scenes Tour” at the Wildlife Alliance‘s Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center. This sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned wild animals. By booking a guided tour, you will contribute to their conservation efforts and learn about the behind-the-scenes work of the center. It’s an enriching experience for the whole family.
A solidarity trip
You can contribute to improving the daily lives of Cambodian children by donating books, clothes or other school supplies. Contact organizations like Les Enfants du Mekong to find out what they need. By donating, you not only help local communities but also teach your children the importance of solidarity.
Additional activities for families
If you have more time, Phnom Penh offers many other activities for families:
- The National Museum: Although the explanations are limited, the museum houses a remarkable collection of pre-Angkorian and Angkorian statues.
- Central Market: Discover local products and handicrafts.
- Amusement parks: Phnom Penh has several amusement parks where children can have fun.
- Cooking classes: Learn to cook Cambodian dishes.
- The Green Store 240: A shop offering eco-friendly and handmade souvenirs.
- Open Book Library: Donate books to enrich the library and support education.
- For older children (12+): Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. It’s important to talk to your children beforehand and explain the historical context.
- Kravanh: A good restaurant with a very nice outdoor space. Not particularly child-friendly, but the service was quick.
Excursions from Phnom Penh
- Kampot: Discover this charming town, famous for its pepper plantations.
- Siem Reap and Angkor: Visit the magnificent Angkor temples.
- Koh Rong: Relax on the beaches and enjoy water activities.
Additional Tips
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Drink bottled water.
- Bargaining is common in markets.
- Learn a few basic Khmer phrases.
