Russian Market Tuol Tom Poung - low angle photo of green and white concrete building under blue sky during daytime
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Russian Market Tuol Tom Poung

4.1
·8k reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A bustling Phnom Penh market offering souvenirs, clothing, crafts, and delicious local street food, with a unique section for scooter parts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (6 AM - 9 AM)

Fewer crowds, better selection

CrowdLow
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Russian Market Tuol Tom Poung - low angle photo of green and white concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Russian Market Tuol Tom Poung

Best Time

Early mornings (6 AM - 9 AM)

Fewer crowds, better selection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling Phnom Penh market offering souvenirs, clothing, crafts, and delicious local street food, with a unique section for scooter parts.

4.1
(8k reviews)

"It's a messy market with everything, from souvenirs to scooter parts and the best Kuy Teav in town!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always negotiate prices respectfully. Start around 50% of the asking price and aim for a fair compromise.

🍜 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss the authentic Kuy Teav! It's considered some of the best in Phnom Penh.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Kuy Teav

Authentic Kuy Teav

Food stalls

Savor the best Cambodian noodle soup (kuyteav) with rich broth and tender meats. A must-try local delicacy.

Reddit
Souvenir Shopping

Souvenir Shopping

Main market area

Discover a vast array of souvenirs, from paintings and t-shirts to traditional purses and keychains. Bargain for great finds.

Reddit
Scooter Parts & Tools

Scooter Parts & Tools

Specific sections

Find a surprising selection of new and second-hand scooter parts, tools, and automotive supplies.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Bargaining is Key

Prices are not fixed at the Russian Market. Be prepared to haggle respectfully to get the best deals on souvenirs, clothing, and crafts. Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle. Reddit

Early Bird Gets the Goods

The market opens early, around 6 AM, and is best experienced before the midday heat and crowds. You'll find a wider selection and more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings (6 AM - 9 AM)
Why
Fewer crowds, better selection
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (4 PM - 6 PM)
Why
Cooler temperatures, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Where to eat local food with locals in Phnom Penh?

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always negotiate prices respectfully. Start around 50% of the asking price and aim for a fair compromise. Reddit

🍜 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss the authentic Kuy Teav! It's considered some of the best in Phnom Penh. Reddit

reddit.com

Supplies in PP

reddit.com

Help to find good fake market in Phnom Penh

🛍️ Explore Beyond Souvenirs

Look for household items, tools, and even scooter parts in specialized sections. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The market can get warm. Carry water or buy it from vendors to stay refreshed. :droplet:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Always negotiate prices respectfully. Start around 50% of the asking price and aim for a fair compromise. Reddit

🍜 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss the authentic Kuy Teav! It's considered some of the best in Phnom Penh. Reddit

🛍️ Explore Beyond Souvenirs

Look for household items, tools, and even scooter parts in specialized sections. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The market can get warm. Carry water or buy it from vendors to stay refreshed. :droplet:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the market. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Russian Market to be a vibrant and diverse shopping destination, offering everything from souvenirs and clothing to unique items like scooter parts. The authentic Kuy Teav is a major culinary highlight, and the opportunity to bargain adds to the experience. While it can be crowded and warm, its lively atmosphere and wide array of goods make it a worthwhile visit for many. Reddit

"Honestly a very nice market. It is smaller in scale compared to central market. But the stalls here have everything. Mainly souvenirs stuffs. Managed to get some nice paintings also as well. Can spend at least 1 to 1.5hrs here."

SL Wong

"If you’re after a nice broth, authentic Cambodian noodle soup (kuyteav), this is the place to go. I honestly think it’s the best kuyteav in Phnom Penh. My usual order is glass noodles or thick rice noodles with beef, beef meatballs, and braised pork organs, always hits the spot."

Janez Y

"Many stalls sell souvenir and you can bargain with the buyer. I got 3 T-shirt with price 2,5 USD / piece. Also bought several key chains and traditional purses. You can buy many varieties of souvenirs here. On the other side of the market you can also find several food stall and other household / daily groceries"

agtifa primadani

What People Like

Wide variety of goods
Authentic Kuy Teav
Bargaining opportunities

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Can be hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Russian Market, also known as Tuol Tom Poung Market, is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of Phnom Penh. It's a popular destination, so most drivers will know the way. Expect a short ride from the city center. Reddit

Yes, there is usually parking available for tuk-tuks and motorbikes. If you're arriving by car, parking might be more limited, but it's generally manageable. Reddit

For budget travelers, a tuk-tuk is the most common and affordable option. Negotiate the fare before you start your journey to ensure a fair price. Reddit

Yes, ride-sharing apps like Grab are widely used in Phnom Penh and can be a convenient way to get to the Russian Market. They often offer fixed prices, which can be helpful. :iphone:

The Russian Market is located a few kilometers south of the city center. The travel time can vary depending on traffic, but it's typically a 15-30 minute ride. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter the Russian Market. It's a public market, and you can wander through the stalls freely. :ticket:

The Russian Market typically opens early, around 6 AM, and stays open until about 6 PM or 7 PM. Some food stalls may operate later. Reddit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends can be busier with both locals and tourists. Reddit

It's best to avoid the peak midday heat, usually between 12 PM and 2 PM, as it can get quite warm inside the market. Reddit

While it's a large market, it's generally easy to navigate. If you do get turned around, you can always ask a vendor for directions or head towards the main entrances. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including hand-painted silk paintings, carved wooden items, traditional Cambodian purses, t-shirts, jewelry, and local crafts. Reddit

Prices vary greatly depending on the item. T-shirts can be around $2-3 USD, keychains a dollar or two, and paintings can range from $10 to $100+ depending on size and artistry. Always bargain! Reddit

The market is well-known for its wide selection of clothing, including t-shirts with various designs, and also for its art and craft items. It's also a surprising spot for scooter parts. Reddit

Yes, you can find a good selection of clothing for both adults and children, including t-shirts, casual wear, and traditional Cambodian attire. Reddit

While many items are mass-produced, you can find authentic handicrafts if you look carefully. Seek out items with unique designs and good craftsmanship. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

The absolute must-try is Kuy Teav, a delicious Cambodian noodle soup. You can also find various grilled meats, fresh fruits, and local snacks. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the Kuy Teav stalls within the market, with some considering it the best in Phnom Penh. Look for stalls with a good number of locals eating there. Reddit

Yes, food prices at the market are generally very reasonable, offering a great way to experience local cuisine affordably. A bowl of Kuy Teav can be just a few dollars. Reddit

While the focus is on meat-based dishes, you can often find fresh fruit stalls and some vegetable-based snacks. It might require asking vendors specifically. Reddit

Generally, yes. Look for stalls that are busy and appear clean. The Kuy Teav stalls are particularly popular and well-regarded. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products. A smile and a gesture usually suffice. Some may ask for a small tip. Reddit

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for cleaner shots. Late afternoon can also be good with warmer light, especially if you can capture the sunset glow. Reddit

Capture the vibrant displays of goods, the interactions between vendors and customers, the colorful textiles, and the bustling atmosphere. The food stalls offer great detail shots. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A prime lens like a 50mm can be good for portraits if you get permission. Keep gear discreet. :camerawithflash:

Yes, you can photograph the scooter parts section, but be mindful of the vendors' space and ask if you're focusing on a specific person or their inventory. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Russian Market can be an exciting, albeit busy, experience for families. Kids might enjoy the colorful displays of toys, clothing, and souvenirs. The food stalls offer opportunities to try new snacks, but be mindful of the heat and crowds. Reddit

Tips for families:
* Go early to avoid the biggest crowds and heat.
* Keep a close eye on children, as it can get congested.
* Bring plenty of water and snacks, or be prepared to buy them from vendors.
* Focus on the more visually interesting stalls like clothing and crafts rather than the more specialized sections.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Russian Market is a paradise for budget travelers looking for souvenirs and local food. You can find t-shirts for as little as $2-3 USD and keychains for a dollar or two, provided you're willing to bargain. Reddit

Eating at the market is also incredibly affordable. A hearty bowl of Kuy Teav can cost just a few dollars, offering a delicious and filling meal without breaking the bank. Using tuk-tuks for transport and negotiating fares will also help keep costs down. :moneybag:

🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters

If you love to shop and haggle, the Russian Market is your playground. It's renowned for its vast selection of souvenirs, clothing, artwork, and handicrafts. The key to success here is mastering the art of negotiation. Reddit

Pro tips for shoppers:
* Have an idea of what you want before you start.
* Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right.
* Compare prices at different stalls before making a purchase.
* Enjoy the process – it's part of the cultural experience!

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Market Maze

The Russian Market is a sprawling labyrinth of stalls, each specializing in different goods. While it can seem overwhelming at first, it's organized into sections. You'll find clothing and souvenirs in the main areas, food stalls often clustered together, and more specialized sections for household goods, tools, and even the surprisingly extensive scooter parts area. Don't be afraid to wander and explore; getting a little lost can lead to unexpected discoveries. Reddit

Bargaining is an integral part of the shopping experience here. Vendors expect it, and it's done with a friendly spirit. Start by offering about half of the initial price and work your way up. It's a good idea to have an idea of what you're willing to pay before you start negotiating. Remember to remain polite and respectful throughout the process. Reddit

For those interested in scooter parts, the Russian Market is a treasure trove. You can find everything from engines and carburetors to smaller parts like gaskets and spark plugs, primarily for Honda models. Even if you're not a mechanic, the sheer variety is fascinating to observe. Reddit

A Culinary Adventure

The food scene at the Russian Market is a highlight for many visitors. The undisputed star is Kuy Teav, a flavorful Cambodian noodle soup. Many reviewers and locals consider the Kuy Teav found here to be among the best in Phnom Penh, featuring a rich broth and your choice of noodles and meats. Reddit

Beyond Kuy Teav, you can sample a variety of local street food. Look for stalls selling grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and an assortment of tropical fruits. It's an excellent opportunity to taste authentic Cambodian flavors at very affordable prices. Reddit

When choosing where to eat, follow the crowds. Busy stalls with a steady stream of customers, especially locals, are usually a good indicator of quality and freshness. Don't be shy about trying new things – it's part of the adventure! :knifeforkplate:

Beyond the Bargains: Local Life

While the Russian Market is famous for its souvenirs and goods, it also offers a glimpse into local Phnom Penh life. The market is a hub for daily necessities, from fresh produce and household items to clothing and tools. You'll see locals shopping, vendors interacting, and the general buzz of a community marketplace. Reddit

This authentic atmosphere is what many travelers appreciate. It's not just a tourist spot; it's a place where people live, work, and shop. The surrounding area also offers a mix of foreign-style bars and restaurants, creating a unique blend of local and international influences. Reddit

For photographers, the market provides endless opportunities to capture candid moments, vibrant colors, and the energy of daily commerce. Remember to be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. :camerawithflash:

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