Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is Cambodia's capital and largest city, set at the meeting point of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Bassac rivers. The city mixes riverside promenades, French colonial buildings, gilded Buddhist temples and fast-growing modern towers, giving it a distinct character among Southeast Asian capitals.

The Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum anchor the historic centre, while Wat Phnom marks the hill that gave the city its name. Monuments such as the Independence Monument, the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum reflect both national pride and the country's painful 20th-century history.

Neighbourhoods range from the lively riverside area of Sisowath Quay and the cafés and bars of Bassac Lane to the markets of the central districts and newer developments in Boeung Keng Kang and Toul Kork. Central Market and Russian Market are popular for local crafts, textiles, food and everyday shopping.

Phnom Penh is also Cambodia's main business and administrative hub, with growing construction, trade, hospitality and technology sectors. Its food scene moves from street stalls and riverside restaurants to Khmer fine dining, while nightlife, festivals and events add to its appeal.

For both leisure and business travellers, Phnom Penh offers a compact, energetic base with easy access to Cambodia's heritage, commerce and Mekong-region connections.