Central Market Phsar Thmei
Iconic Art Deco market in Phnom Penh, offering everything from souvenirs to local street food. A must-visit landmark!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Central Market Phsar Thmei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Art Deco market in Phnom Penh, offering everything from souvenirs to local street food. A must-visit landmark!
🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?
USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. :moneybag:
🤝 Bargaining Etiquette
Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:
Quick Facts
Type
Building
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Architecture
The entire market structure
Marvel at the iconic, cross-shaped Art Deco building, a stunning landmark from 1937.
Souvenir Hunting
Various stalls
Find everything from silks and silver to wood carvings and local crafts. Bargain respectfully!
Local Delicacies
Food sections
Sample Cambodian snacks, fresh fruits, and local dishes. A true taste of Phnom Penh!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Currency Matters: USD vs. Riel
Navigating the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?
USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. :moneybag:
🤝 Bargaining Etiquette
Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot and humid inside. Keep water handy! :droplet:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photos. Capture the essence! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?
USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. :moneybag:
🤝 Bargaining Etiquette
Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot and humid inside. Keep water handy! :droplet:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photos. Capture the essence! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Phsar Thmei is a vibrant hub offering a wide array of goods, from souvenirs to local delicacies, all housed within a stunning Art Deco building. Visitors appreciate the architectural beauty and the sheer variety of items available. However, some find the market overwhelming due to crowds and heat, and bargaining can be a challenge for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Phsar Thmei is centrally located in Phnom Penh. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or ride-sharing apps. Many hotels are within a short ride.
Yes, there is parking available for tuk-tuks and cars, though it can get busy during peak hours.
Depending on your starting point, it might be walkable. It's a good central hub to combine with nearby sights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Phsar Thmei is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase.
The market is typically open daily from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though some stalls may close earlier or stay open later.
Phsar Thmei is generally safe, but like any busy market, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can find a vast array of goods including souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, electronics, fresh produce, and local snacks.
The market's layout can be a bit disorienting, especially in the central dome. It's best to explore with a sense of adventure or note your entry point.
Yes, restrooms are available within the market, though their cleanliness can vary.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-ups of their stalls or products.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of local Cambodian dishes, fresh fruits, smoothies, and snacks. It's a great place to try authentic street food.
While many enjoy the street food, exercise caution. Opt for stalls that look busy and where food is cooked fresh.
Primarily, you'll find food stalls offering quick bites. For full sit-down meals, you might need to look outside the immediate market area.
📸 📸 Photography
The central dome with its intricate structure, the vibrant displays of goods, and the bustling activity of vendors and shoppers are all prime photo opportunities.
It's best practice to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or shoppers. A smile and a gesture usually suffice.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the market's atmosphere and architecture without too many distractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit