1. National Museum of Cambodia

“Do you think it’ll just be full of old pottery?” my friend asked as we set off for the National Museum, our first stop in the Cambodian capital. Now I won’t lie to those averse to aged ceramics; there is pottery. But there is also a sublime collection of Khmer sculptures and art, which, had the Khmer Rouge had their way, would not have survived to this day.

It’s one of the most absorbing national museums I’ve visited, just large enough to be comprehensive yet compact enough to see it all in a couple of hours, and bizarrely, a simple map illustrating the former domination of the Khmer Empire draws the largest crowds, united in astonishment upon realizing just how far and wide it once ruled.

2. Sisowath Quay

Phnom Penh is all about this surprise factor. On a walk along Sisowath Quay, the city’s pedestrianized riverfront, you’re likely to witness an aerobics class, local boys skateboarding, or the serene sight of monks strolling, clad in orange robes. On the weekend, you’ll probably end up at the Phsar Reatrey night market, where chocolate waffles, cold beer, kebabs, and fried insects are all abundantly available.

More traditional sights are on the menu too, though, as colorful wats and pagodas (temples) are scattered around the city, and for those who have visited Bangkok’s Grand Palace, the architecture of Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and glittering Silver Pagoda will ring a bell. Its murals, wats, gardens, and Baccarat crystal Buddha are reminiscent of those found in the Thai capital.

3. Genocide Museum

Harrowing monuments to Cambodia’s grisly past during the Khmer Rouge’s murderous rule. Not for the faint-hearted, just over 1km (0.6 miles) from Tuol Tom Pong Market, to the north of Mao Tse Toung Boulevard, stands the former Tuol Sleng Prison, now Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Here, during Pol Pot’s years in power, around 20,000 people were interrogated under torture and murdered, generally together with their families.

Finally, for those with the stomach for the experience, after visiting Tuol Sleng, about 12km (7.5 miles) southwest of the town are the infamous Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Here victims of the Khmer Rouge were executed and buried in mass graves. 

Many of these graves have now been exhumed, and a stupa-shaped mausoleum has been erected in the victims’ memory. Despite how intense of an experience it is, this is by far one of the best things to do in Cambodia to have a better idea about the history of this country. 

4. Phnom Penh’s markets

Shop early mornings (7-9am) for the freshest produce and authentic local atmosphere. For souvenirs and crafts, mid-morning avoids crowds. Night markets come alive after 5pm. Avoid midday heat, especially at Russian Market, which has limited ventilation.