Private Phnom Penh Day Tour: Royal Palace & Historic Landmarks

Uncover the full spectrum of Cambodia's heritage on this comprehensive 7-hour private city tour of Phnom Penh. Designed for travelers who want a complete, meaningful understanding of the capital, this journey seamlessly balances the regal splendor of ancient traditions with a respectful look at modern history. Guided by a dedicated English-speaking local guide, you will travel comfortably in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to explore iconic royal landmarks, sacred city temples, moving historic memorials, and patriotic monuments—gaining deep insights into the resilience, faith, and pride of the Cambodian people. Experience the dual identity of Phnom Penh in a single day—from the majesty of royal architecture and local folklore to the profound history of the 1970s and the celebration of modern independence. Enjoy 100% personalized pacing with private hotel pickup and drop-off, a dedicated driver and English-speaking guide and complimentary cold drinking water.

1. 1

   Royal Palace

   2 hours

   We explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, home to the Cambodian royal family and a symbol of the nation. We begin amid the beautiful royal gardens, landscaped with tropical plants and studded with gleaming spires. We enter the Throne Hall where the royal receptions are held and the Cambodian king's coronation took place. We then pass the Napoleon III Pavilion made from iron, a gift from the French emperor in the 19thcentury.We continue to the Silver Pagoda, named after the 5000 silver tiles covering the floor, each weighing 1kg. Inside are some of the country's most cherished treasures, including a life-size gold Buddha studded with 9584 diamonds, the largest weighing 25 carats.

2. 2

   Wat Phnom Daun Penh

   1 hour

   The Wat Phnom Temple is a sanctuary founded by Daun Penh (Grandma Penh), a wealthy widow who in 1372, retrieved from a river a log with five Buddha statues in it and ordered to elevate a piece of her property on which to build a temple to house the statues. Later on, Grandma Penh and the villagers converted to build a temple on the top of the mountain and brought the four Buddha statues to the temple. While a standing statue of the goddess was placed in a shrine located on the eastern of the hill. Eventually, this became a sacred site and sanctuary where people would make blessings and pray.

3. 3

   Choeung Ek Genocidal Center

   2 hours

   Killing Fields of Choeng Ek, where prisoners from Tuol Sleng followed this same route to their fate is a reeducation center. An formerly Chinese cemetery, ChoengEk was turned into an extermination camp for political prisoners. The remains of 8985 people were exhumed from mass graves and are kept in a memorial stupa here. Despite the horrors of the past, it is a peaceful place to go and a tranquil spot to reflect on the tragic events that engulfed Cambodia and its people.

4. 4

   Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

   1 hour

   TuolSleng was a former high school that the Khmer Rouge turned into a centre for interrogation, torture and death. Today it is a museum of torture and serves to remind visitors of the terrible atrocities that came to pass in Cambodia. 17,000 people passed through the gates of this prison and only seven lived to tell the tale.

5. 5

   Independence Monument

   1 hour

   Independence Monument, built in 1958, and inaugurated in 1962 during the regime of Sangkum Reastr, this monument also serves as a proud testament to commemorate people who sacrificed their lives for the welfare of the country. The monument is captivating for its cool, serene atmosphere, which in turn makes it a much sought-after destination.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.