Phnom Penh Cruise Port

Phnom Penh sits at the meeting point of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers in south central Cambodia. It is the country's capital and largest city, and a port of call for Mekong River cruises travelling through Southeast Asia. The city was established in 1434 and later became known as the "Pearl of Asia", a reference to its architecture and its importance during the colonial era.

The city's appearance reflects several layers of history. French colonial buildings still line some of the main streets, while Khmer traditions remain central to everyday life and worship. The Royal Palace is one of the city's best known landmarks and remains the official residence of Cambodia's royal family. Nearby, Wat Phnom stands on a small hill and is closely connected with the origins of the city's name.

Phnom Penh's location beside two major rivers also shapes its environment. Much of the city lies on low lying flood plains, and the water levels can rise considerably during the monsoon season. Cambodia has a tropical climate, with heavier rainfall during the summer months and generally drier, cooler conditions between November and February.

Away from the major landmarks, Phnom Penh is a busy working capital rather than a city preserved solely for visitors. Markets are filled with fresh produce, local goods and everyday shopping, while restaurants serve Khmer dishes alongside Vietnamese and French influenced food. The streets provide plenty of opportunities to see the rhythms of daily Cambodian life, from busy commercial areas to quieter neighbourhoods.

For cruise passengers, Phnom Penh offers a mixture of history, architecture, food and local culture. A visit can focus on the Royal Palace and temples, or simply involve exploring markets and streets to get a feel for the modern city. Its position on the Mekong also makes it an important stop for river cruisers continuing through Cambodia and the wider region.