Travelers looking to return home with enviable souvenirs can visit Central Market as part of a private Phnom Penh market tour, which helps visitors overcome the language barrier and visit places that sell unusual local fare. If you’re looking for a more flexible itinerary, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops at Central Market, provides a great way for first-time visitors to orient themselves in the bustling capital city.
The market is open daily from early morning until late afternoon.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local Khmer culture.
During rainy season, the market is prone to flooding; try to visit during dry season if you can.
Prepare to barter for goods; many vendors offer tourists much higher prices.
Central Market is located at the intersection of Kampuchea Krom Street and 63 Street in Daun Penh District. Visitors can hire cars and motor taxis from the stand in the northwest corner of the market, or hop a bus at the station in the southwest corner.
Regardless of what time you visit the market, expect large crowds and plenty of hustle and bustle. First-time visitors often find the market slightly overwhelming, but visiting with a guide will help you keep your bearings and find the best stalls.
For photographers, the fresh food section ofthe market provides a wealth of opportunities; vibrant fruits, such as mango, papaya, and dragon fruit sit beside exotic vegetables and dried, medicinal herbs. If you’re looking to purchase jewelry, you can pick up items made from gold, silver, and jade in the market interior.