BangkokvsPhnom Penh
Can't decide between Bangkok and Phnom Penh? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Bangkok
Bangkok is a sensory overload of golden temples, bustling street markets, and incredible street food. The Thai capital pulses with energy 24/7, offering everything from ancient Buddhist sites to world-class rooftop bars.
Known for
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, Cambodia's bustling capital at the confluence of three rivers, is a city of contrasts — glittering Royal Palace pagodas alongside sobering Khmer Rouge history, French colonial villas next to chaotic markets, and a rapidly evolving food and nightlife scene.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Bangkok offers Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Weekend Market
Phnom Penh offers Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Food & Dining
Bangkok is famous for its local dining scene
Phnom Penh is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Bangkok has legendary nightlife
Phnom Penh has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
November to February
November to February
Weather
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 32°C
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 27°C
Top Attractions in Bangkok
- 1Grand Palace
- 2Wat Pho
- 3Chatuchak Weekend Market
- 4Khao San Road
- 5Wat Arun
- 6Floating Markets
Top Attractions in Phnom Penh
- 1Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
- 2Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- 3Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
- 4Central Market
- 5National Museum of Cambodia
- 6Riverside Promenade
Bangkok is Popular With
Phnom Penh is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Bangkok
- 1
The Artist's House (Baan Silapin)
A 200-year-old wooden house on a quiet canal in Thonburi, functioning as an art gallery, cafe, and traditional puppet theater.
- 2
Siriraj Medical Museum (Museum of Death)
A series of medical museums within Siriraj Hospital, featuring forensic pathology exhibits, including the preserved body of a famous serial killer.
Hidden Gems in Phnom Penh
- 1
Wat Langka
One of Phnom Penh's five original pagodas, located in a quiet compound near the Independence Monument.
- 2
The Vintage Shop at Russian Market
Tucked in a corner of the Russian Market, this small stall is packed with genuine vintage items from Cambodia's recent past.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Bangkok
Rattanakosin (Old City)
The historic heart of Bangkok, home to the Grand Palace and the city's most sacred temples.
Sukhumvit
A long, modern artery of the city, epitomizing Bangkok's cosmopolitan side.
Top Areas in Phnom Penh
Riverside (Sisowath Quay & Around)
The bustling tourist epicenter and social hub of the city, running along the Tonlé Sap River.
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
An upscale, leafy residential area known for its expat-friendly vibe, trendy cafes, international restaurants, boutique shops, and chic cocktail bars.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Bangkok
Budget in Phnom Penh
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Bangkok
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Phnom Penh
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Bangkok
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Bangkok
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Find cheap transport to Phnom Penh
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Phnom Penh
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Our Verdict
Both Bangkok and Phnom Penh are incredible destinations. Bangkok excels in street food and temples, while Phnom Penh stands out for Khmer heritage and street food.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Bangkok
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