Phnom Penh: Highlights Tour Including S21 and Killing Fields

Touring Phnom Penh can be an emotional journey as much as it is an eye-opening experience. This well-reviewed, small-group tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s iconic sites, history, and culture—all for just $30 per person. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the main attractions without feeling rushed, with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a good balance of somber reflection and vibrant city life.

What we love about this tour? Firstly, the insightful guides who bring history alive with stories and personal touches. Secondly, the value for money—covering everything from major monuments to markets and a traditional Khmer lunch—makes it a practical choice. Thirdly, the well-organized itinerary that balances intense, emotional visits like S21 and the Killing Fields with lighter city sights and local experiences. That said, a smaller consideration is that the emotional weight of the genocide sites can be heavy, so this tour might not be suited for very young children or those sensitive to difficult subject matter. This tour suits curious travelers eager to understand Cambodia’s past and present in a single day.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers top city sights, the Killing Fields, and S21 Museum
• Expert Guides: Known for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to answer questions
• Balanced Experience: Combines historical reflection with city exploration and local markets
• Affordable Price: At $30, offers excellent value with included transportation and some refreshments
• Emotional Depth: Visits to genocide sites are impactful but may be intense
• Flexible and Punctual: Well-organized with timings designed to maximize the day

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Phnom Penh Highlights Tour

This tour is a well-rounded day, packing a lot into 8 hours with a focus on Cambodia’s history, culture, and vibrant city life. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Phnom Penh, with transport offered via air-conditioned van or tuk tuk—depending on your option. The small group size, limited to a maximum of seven people, ensures a personal experience and easy interaction with your guide, who also acts as your driver.

Morning: Temples, Monuments, and City Landmarks

Your journey kicks off with Wat Phnom and the Lady Penh Statue. These sites are not just scenic—they are central to Phnom Penh’s identity. Seeing the Lady Penh statue, which the city is named after, offers a tangible connection to the city’s origins. From here, you visit Wat Unaloam, a monastery dating back to the 15th century, which remains one of the key religious sites. This part of the tour is quite enlightening for understanding local spiritual life and history.

Next, you’ll explore the National Museum, an elegant structure built during the French colonial era. Here, traditional Cambodian art and artifacts take center stage, offering a glimpse into the country’s cultural roots. The museum’s architecture itself is a visual treat, with intricate roof details and lovely courtyards.

Adjacent to the Royal Palace, you’ll see the Royal Crematorium and the public park in front. While the Royal Palace’s striking walls and gates are outside the tour’s focus, the park in front makes for an ideal photo spot, especially in the morning light. Nearby, the Cambodian-Vietnam Friendship Monument stands as a testament to modern Cambodia’s complex relationships, and the King Norodom Sihanouk Statue adds a regal touch.

A highlight for many is the Independence Monument, which symbolizes Cambodia’s liberation from French rule. Its distinctive design makes it one of the city’s most recognizable symbols, and it’s especially photogenic early in the day when the light is softer.

Throughout this exploration, your guide will share stories, context, and local insights that bring each site to life—something many reviews praise, noting guides like Sophoarn and Sophoarn’s engaging storytelling.

Lunch Break: Tasting Local Flavors

Midday, you’ll stop at a local restaurant, providing a delicious break from sightseeing. The included recommendation is typically a Khmer cuisine spot, where you can sample dishes like amok (a coconut curry steamed in banana leaves) or fresh spring rolls. Many travelers mention the quality of the lunch and appreciate the opportunity to try authentic local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Afternoon: The Heavyweights—S21 and the Killing Fields

Post-lunch, the mood shifts to the more somber, but profoundly important, sites. You’ll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), where former school buildings housed the Khmer Rouge’s detention center. The site is haunting, with preserved cells, photographs, and personal stories. A recommended extra is the audio guide, which many reviews mention enhances understanding and emotional impact. Entrance costs are around $10, payable on-site, often paid with cash.

Next, the Killing Fields—a vast site marked by memorial stupa filled with skulls—offers a visceral reminder of the atrocities committed. The audio guides here deepen your understanding of the tragic history, and visitors often describe the experience as moving and eye-opening. Entry fees are typically $6, also paid in cash.

Many reviewers, such as Alexandra, appreciate the opportunity to learn directly from the guide, with some mentioning that guides like Sophoarn or Sophoarn are particularly knowledgeable and approachable. They answer questions thoughtfully, providing personal anecdotes that help process the heavy material.

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Exploring the City’s Modern Side

After these intense visits, the tour continues with a drive around the city to see landmarks like the Patriarch of Monks Statue, the Buddhist Institute, and the Cambodian Parliament. You’ll pass through Chinatown, and along the Mekong River, viewing Tonle Sap and Tonle Bassac areas, which highlight Phnom Penh’s ongoing development.

The driver-guide will point out the Diamond Island (a modern satellite city), giving insight into Phnom Penh’s rapid growth and urbanization. This part of the tour is appreciated by those wanting a broad overview of how Cambodia’s capital balances tradition with modernity.

Optional Market Visit

Before ending the day, you have the option to visit either Russian Market or Central Market, two of the city’s most famous shopping spots. Reviewers mention that these markets are great for souvenirs, local crafts, and street snacks. The visit is flexible based on your preferences and available time.

Transportation and Group Size

The transport is a key part of the experience—air-conditioned vans or tuk tuks depending on your choice. Many travelers have praised the comfort and cleanliness of the vehicle, along with the driver’s professionalism. The small group format (up to 7 travelers) ensures a personalized vibe, making it easier to ask questions and get tailored attention from your guide.

Pricing and What’s Included

At just $30 per group, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of sites and experiences covered. The cost includes hotel pickup and drop-off (in the city center), guided explanations in English, bottled water, and a local soft drink or beer after noon. Entrance fees to the key sites—S21 Museum ($10), Killing Fields ($6), and Wat Phnom ($1)—are paid separately in cash, which many guests find manageable.

The tour is designed to be flexible; you’re encouraged to follow the schedule closely but also to enjoy some free time and optional stops like markets. It’s a good way to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed.

What Reviewers Love

Authentic guides like Sophoarn, Sophoarn, or Sophoarn consistently earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to answer questions. Many mention their guides’ humor and warmth, which helps lighten the emotional weight of the genocide sites. Alexandra describes the tour as “really thorough,” appreciating the freedom to explore S21 and the Killing Fields at her own pace, thanks to the driver/guide waiting.

The variety of sites— from historic temples, monuments, and cultural sites to tragic memorials—gives a well-rounded perspective of Phnom Penh. Travelers also love the local lunch and the chance to browse markets at the end, which offers a taste of everyday Cambodian life.

The Emotional and Cultural Significance

The visit to the Killing Fields and S21 remains the most impactful part of this experience. Reviewers like Alexandra reflect on the importance of understanding Cambodia’s recent trauma, with some describing the experience as “moving” and “important.” Guides’ storytelling, combined with audio narratives, helps in processing the heavy history.

While many find this part difficult, they agree it’s a crucial part of understanding the country’s resilience and future. It’s worth noting that these sites require a certain emotional readiness, and the tour’s timing—visiting in the cooler morning hours—helps to avoid the heat and allows for a more reflective experience.

The Value of the Tour

Given the comprehensive itinerary, personal guides, and included amenities, the $30 price tag is very attractive. When you consider the entrance fees, transport, and expert commentary, it’s an experience delivering solid value. For travelers who want a full day of sightseeing, learning, and reflection without breaking the bank, this tour ticks many boxes.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and those interested in Cambodia’s past and present. It works well for those who appreciate small group settings and guided storytelling, especially if they’re prepared for some emotionally charged sites. It’s also a good choice for visitors with limited time but eager for a well-organized, meaningful overview of Phnom Penh.

Final Verdict

This highly-rated tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, historical monuments, and powerful memorials—all within a manageable and affordable package. The combination of knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary makes it stand out among city tours.

While the visits to the Killing Fields and S21 can be intense, they are essential experiences for understanding Cambodia’s recent history. The tour’s structure allows for reflection and learning, making it ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing.

If you’re after an authentic, respectful, and insightful introduction to Phnom Penh that combines city highlights with a serious look at the country’s past, this tour is a strong choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years due to the emotional nature of the genocide sites.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees for Wat Phnom ($1), S21 Museum ($10), and Killing Fields ($6) are paid in cash on-site.

What should I bring?
Bring cash (for entrance fees and optional market shopping), sunscreen, hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is at a local restaurant and paid separately, but many reviews praise the quality and authenticity of the food.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs for about 8 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon drop-off.

Are transport and guides included?
Yes, the price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided explanations, bottled water, and transport in air-conditioned vehicles or tuk tuks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the schedule is set to maximize coverage, there’s some flexibility, especially at the markets and free time at certain sites.

This tour offers a sincere and detailed insight into Phnom Penh. It’s perfect for travelers who want a compact yet meaningful experience that balances history, culture, and city life—all without overspending.

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