The markets of Phnom Penh are an exciting and at times exhilarating place to explore.

There are many items to be found in any of these markets from fresh food and household items to clothing and trinkets and everything in between, they all have a large variety of food stalls at cheap local prices so they are well worth a look if only for a tasty meal.

For the visitor it is truly an exotic adventure into the cultural delights of this fascinating city with some great photo opportunities for the photographer and a chance to meet with some fascinating locals, you can wander around for hours in some of these markets and visiting at least a couple of them is an absolute must for any traveller. Taking in the atmosphere as you wind your way through the maze of stalls in these markets is definitely an experience you won’t soon forget.

Markets open early in the morning and close early in the evening and this is perhaps the best time to visit as during the middle of the day it can become quite hot.

Psar Thmei

Otherwise known as the Central Market or New Market, Psar Thmei is arguably the best of the markets in Phnom Penh and has become a major landmark for the city.
The yellow coloured Art Deco building has a large central domed hall with four wings protruding from it and it's certainly hard to miss. Stalls offer a wide variety of goods from gold and silver jewellery to antiques, electrical goods, clothing, household items and a large variety of flowers and plants. Food stalls are also found here situated around the main building but mainly on the western side facing Monivong Boulevard.

Psar Tuol Tom Pong

Also known as the Russian Market this is possibly the best market in Phnom Penh to buy souvenirs with a large range of antiques both real and fake. Carvings, statues and Buddha’s are but a few of the items you will find here. Popular brand named clothing is also available, along with a large variety of beautiful silks and other fabrics. A large selection of music CD’s, DVD’s and computer games can also be found in abundance here. This market has become quite popular with the tourist and its well worth a visit.

Psar O Russei

Situated in a large new building this market provides hundreds of stalls for the shopper looking for luxury food items, jewellery, toiletries and second – hand clothing. This market can be a bit of a maze to get around in so try not to get lost.

Psar Olympic

A covered modern market, the Psar Olympic is situated near the Olympic Stadium, hence its name. Electronics, bicycle parts and clothing can be found here amongst other items. As with the other markets in Phnom Penh food stalls are also available here for a cheap tasty snack.

Psar Chaa

The older market in town, the Psar Chaa provides small restaurants, food vendors, clothing, household items and jewellery stalls. This is certainly more a locals market and there is not as much available here for the visitor in comparison to the other markets. In the early evening many food vendors are to be found along Street 13 selling their wares to the locals and it can get very busy at this time of the day. If you love your markets and are ready for a real culture shock take a look.