10 Best Day Trips from Phnom Penh

Cambodia's former capital before Phnom Penh. Climb sacred hills to gilded stupas containing royal cremation sites. Panoramic views over the Cambodian countryside and a fascinating glimpse into pre-Angkor history.

A peaceful island in the Mekong River famous for traditional silk weaving. Watch artisans work looms in their stilted houses, cycle through mango orchards, and experience rural life minutes from the capital.

A lakeside recreation area with the 12th-century Ta Prohm temple (not the famous Siem Reap one). Locals picnic in hammock huts over the lake on weekends. A charming, authentic Cambodian day out.

A wildlife rescue center housing sun bears, tigers, elephants, and gibbons rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Behind-the-scenes tours let you see the rehabilitation work up close.

An 11th-century hilltop temple with sweeping views over paddy fields. Less visited than Tonle Bati and more atmospheric. The 400-step climb is rewarded with solitude and spectacular views.

Cambodia's most accessible national park with pine forests, waterfalls, and cool highland temperatures. Day trips include hiking, mountain biking, and visiting the eerie abandoned royal retreat.

A charming river town with a bamboo bridge to Koh Pen island (seasonal), French colonial architecture, and a relaxed provincial atmosphere. The bamboo bridge is rebuilt each dry season.

Half-day boat tours explore the islands and floating communities where the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers merge. See floating houses, river dolphins (if lucky), and the unique hydrology of the world's only reversing river.

Off-the-beaten-path farming province with ancient pre-Angkorian ruins, traditional Khmer villages, and virtually zero tourists. A genuine glimpse into rural Cambodian life.

While technically within the city, these essential historical sites make a sobering but important day of reflection. The audio guides at both sites are some of the best in any museum worldwide.