Phnom Penh grows more cosmopolitan by the day and has (almost) all the comforts of home.
Phnom Penh is a city on the move, and nearly unrecognizable compared to how it was just a decade or two in the past. Cambodia’s capital city was once known for its iconic French colonial architecture and broad, tree-lined boulevards. Today the trees are mostly gone, and Phnom Penh is dotted with decrepit French colonial buildings shadowed by shiny new high rises. Now home to international brands, a plethora of new restaurants, and a host of imported goods and products, the city is a magnet for Cambodians from the provinces looking for new opportunities, and for expats from around the world who are searching for the very same thing.
Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a year, we’ve got the low-down on everything you need to know about Phnom Penh, from restaurants, hotels, and nightlife to supermarkets, gyms, and schools.
Phnom Penh Expat City Guide
Figure out where you want to stay with our real reviews of Phnom Penh hotels and guesthouses.
Hungry? We tell you where to eat in Cambodia’s capital.
There’s no way around it, Phnom Penh is a party city! Read our bars, clubs, and nightlife section for the low-down.
If you’re only in town for a few days, Phnom Penh has lots to see and do. Check out our picks for sightseeing and things to do.
Learn about the city’s best shopping in our shopping guide.
In the transportation section we cover how to get in, out, and around Phnom Penh, including our favorite local tuk tuk drivers, moto rentals, and taxis.
Find out about which are the best local hospitals, doctors and clinics, reputable pharmacies, pediatricians, and dental care in our medical care section.
Expat essentials covers the basics you’ll need as a Phnom Penh expat:
Electricity and plumbing, Groceries and supermarkets, Gyms, fitness classes, and sports, International schools, Internet providers, Laundry and dry cleaning, Learning Khmer, Real estate and housing, Travel Agents, and Veterinarians.
Want to meet other Phnom Penh expats? We help you find them.
Latest Posts
-
Crowning Glory: Up-close Cambodian Royal Ballet performance is a visual treat
A modern business park is hardly the typical backdrop for a centuries-old art form born in the royal palaces of Cambodia. Until the end of March, however, a compact studio at Aquation on Koh Pich is the go-to destination for … Continue reading
-
How to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (and vice versa) in 2024
If you’re heading to Cambodia in 2024, you may be wondering how to to get from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (and Siem Reap to Phnom Penh). There are options to fit every budget, but some are nicer and more … Continue reading
-
One-street shopping in Phnom Penh for the festive season
Street 240 is a gift for Christmas shoppers! Christmas is coming, you can’t rely on Santa to do all the work, and time is running out. Forget the lookalike malls, there’s a pleasant, leafy avenue in Phnom Penh near the … Continue reading