If you want to understand Phnom Penh beyond its temples, museums and cafés, spend a morning at one of its local markets.
Markets are part of everyday life in Cambodia. People come to buy vegetables, meat, seafood, clothes, household items, jewelry and food. Some markets are popular with tourists, while others are almost entirely used by local residents.
For travelers, this makes Phnom Penh's markets more than shopping destinations. They are places to eat, bargain, take photographs and see how everyday life in the capital works.
From the famous yellow dome of Central Market to the crowded aisles of Orussey Market, each market has its own character.
Here are some of the main markets to know when visiting Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh Markets at a Glance
| Market | Khmer Name | Best For | Tourist Friendly? | Suggested Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Market | Phsar Thmei | Souvenirs, jewelry, food, general shopping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1–2 hours |
| Russian Market | Phsar Toul Tom Poung | Souvenirs, clothing, crafts, food | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1–2 hours |
| Orussey Market | Phsar Orussey | Local shopping, clothes, household goods | ⭐⭐ | 1–2 hours |
| Olympic Market | Phsar Olympic | Fabric, clothing, wholesale shopping | ⭐⭐ | 1–2 hours |
| Kandal Market | Phsar Kandal | Fresh food and local life | ⭐⭐⭐ | 30–60 min |
| Old Market | Phsar Chas | Fresh food, local atmosphere | ⭐⭐⭐ | 30–60 min |
| Boeung Keng Kang Market | Phsar BKK | Local food and neighborhood shopping | ⭐⭐⭐ | 30–60 min |
| Phnom Penh Night Market | Phsar Reatrey | Street food and evening atmosphere | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1–2 hours |
| Depo Market | Phsar Depo | Everyday shopping and local food | ⭐⭐ | 30–60 min |
| Pochentong Market | Phsar Pochentong | Local food and everyday commerce | ⭐⭐ | 30–60 min |
Market hours can change, especially for individual stalls. Early morning is generally the best time for fresh food markets.
1. Central Market – Phsar Thmei
Phsar Thmei
If you only have time to visit one market in Phnom Penh, Central Market is an easy place to start.
Known locally as Phsar Thmei, meaning "New Market," the market is one of Phnom Penh's most recognizable landmarks.
The huge yellow Art Deco building was completed in 1937 and is designed around a distinctive central dome with four wings extending outward. (tourismcambodia.com)
Inside and around the market, you'll find a wide variety of products.
What can you buy?
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Clothing
- Krama
- Fabrics
- Souvenirs
- Household items
- Electronics
- Fresh food
- Flowers
- Snacks
The market is particularly known for its jewelry section, while the surrounding stalls sell everything from clothing to fresh produce. (tourismcambodia.com)
Why visit?
Even if you're not planning to shop, the building itself is worth seeing.
The central dome and long corridors make Central Market one of the most photogenic markets in Phnom Penh.
Best time to visit
Morning to early afternoon
Current local visitor information generally places opening hours around 6:00 AM–5:00 PM, although individual stalls may close earlier or later.
2. Russian Market – Phsar Toul Tom Poung
Toul Tompong Market (Russian Market)
Despite its famous English name, the Russian Market isn't a Russian market.
Its Khmer name is Phsar Toul Tom Poung, and the market became known as the Russian Market because it was particularly popular with Russian expatriates during the 1980s.
Today, it is one of Phnom Penh's most popular markets for both locals and visitors.
The market is located in the Chamkar Mon area and has hundreds of small shops and stalls selling crafts, textiles, clothing, food and other goods.
What can you buy?
- Silk
- Cambodian handicrafts
- Clothing
- Bags
- Jewelry
- Souvenirs
- Artwork
- Tailor-made clothing
- Food
- Household products
The market has a very different atmosphere from the grand architecture of Central Market.
It is more crowded, narrow and maze-like.
Why visit?
For shopping and souvenirs.
If you're looking for Cambodian gifts to take home, this is one of the markets worth exploring.
TravelKH Tip
Don't buy immediately from the first stall.
Walk around first.
Prices can vary between vendors, and polite bargaining is common.
3. Orussey Market – Phsar Orussey
Orussey Market
If you want to see a more local side of Phnom Penh, put Orussey Market on your list.
Known locally as Phsar Orussey, this large multi-level market is much more focused on everyday Cambodian shopping than tourist souvenirs.
Research on Phnom Penh's markets describes Orussey as a large three-storey market with goods ranging from household products and electronics to clothing, accessories and food, with local residents and commercial buyers making up much of its clientele.
What can you find?
- Clothing
- Shoes
- Household goods
- Kitchenware
- Electronics
- Toys
- Bedding
- Food
- Accessories
- Wholesale products
Why visit?
Because this is where you can see how local shopping works.
You won't find the same polished tourist experience as Central Market.
That's exactly what makes it interesting.
Good for:
Travelers who want an authentic local market experience.
If you are visiting only for souvenirs, Russian Market may be easier.
If you want to see everyday commerce, Orussey is more interesting.
4. Olympic Market – Phsar Olympic
Olympic Market
Located near the Olympic Stadium, Olympic Market is another large traditional market in Phnom Penh.
It is particularly known for fabric, clothing and wholesale shopping.
The market occupies several floors and attracts shoppers looking for textiles, clothes, traditional Khmer clothing and other products.
What to buy?
- Fabric
- Clothes
- Traditional clothing
- Accessories
- Religious items
- Household products
- Wholesale goods
Who should visit?
Olympic Market is particularly interesting if you:
- Want to buy fabric
- Are interested in Cambodian clothing
- Need materials for tailoring
- Want to see a wholesale-style market
It is less important for a traveler looking for a quick souvenir.
5. Kandal Market – Phsar Kandal
Psar Kandal
Kandal Market is located in the historic central area close to the riverside.
Don't confuse it with Central Market.
This is important because Phsar Thmei means New Market, while Phsar Kandal is a different market altogether.
Kandal Market offers a more everyday local market experience, with food and household shopping taking a larger role than the tourist-oriented products found at Central Market.
Its location also makes it easy to combine with a walk around the riverside and nearby historic neighborhoods.
Good for:
- Local food
- Fresh produce
- Everyday shopping
- Exploring central Phnom Penh
Best time:
Early morning
That's when markets are often at their busiest and freshest.
6. Old Market – Phsar Chas
The Old Market
Phsar Chas, literally meaning Old Market, is located close to Phnom Penh's riverside.
It is one of the markets worth visiting if you're already exploring the old central part of the city.
Unlike Central Market, the attraction here is less about impressive architecture and more about everyday local commerce.
You'll find:
- Fresh vegetables
- Fruit
- Meat
- Fish
- Household products
- Snacks
- Clothing
- Everyday goods
The surrounding area also makes it easy to combine the market with Phnom Penh's riverside, Wat Phnom and other central attractions.
TravelKH Tip
Come early.
A local market is most interesting when the vendors are busy and fresh products are arriving.
7. Boeung Keng Kang Market – BKK Market
Boeung Keng Kang Market
Located in the popular Boeung Keng Kang (BKK) area, this market serves the surrounding neighborhood.
It is useful for travelers staying in BKK1 or nearby areas who want to see a more ordinary neighborhood market without traveling across Phnom Penh.
You'll find everyday products such as:
- Fresh food
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Meat
- Seafood
- Clothes
- Household products
- Prepared food
The market sits in an area popular with both Cambodian residents and foreigners, giving it a mixed neighborhood atmosphere.
Good for:
Travelers staying in BKK who want a local market within the neighborhood.
8. Phnom Penh Night Market
Phnom Penh Night Market
If you don't want to wake up early for a traditional market, try the Phnom Penh Night Market.
Located along the riverside, it has a very different atmosphere from the morning markets.
The market is geared toward an evening outing, with:
- Street food
- Snacks
- Clothes
- Souvenirs
- Local products
- Entertainment
- Riverside atmosphere
It is particularly convenient for travelers because you can combine it with an evening walk along Sisowath Quay.
Best time
Around 6:00–9:00 PM
Come hungry.
Try several small dishes instead of eating one large meal at a restaurant.
9. Depo Market
Depo Market
Depo Market, also known as Phsar Depo, is another traditional market serving local residents.
It is less tourist-oriented than Central Market and Russian Market.
The market is useful for travelers who want to see everyday Phnom Penh shopping away from the main tourist routes.
Expect a mixture of:
- Food
- Clothing
- Household products
- Electronics
- Accessories
- Everyday necessities
Who should visit?
Travelers who have already seen the major tourist markets and want to explore another side of Phnom Penh.
10. Pochentong Market
Pochentong Market
Located in the western part of Phnom Penh near the airport area, Pochentong Market is a busy traditional market serving surrounding communities.
It is particularly useful if you're staying near Phnom Penh International Airport or traveling through the western side of the city.
This is more of a local shopping market than a tourist attraction.
You'll find everyday Cambodian products, fresh food and local vendors.
Good for:
- Local food
- Fresh produce
- Everyday shopping
- Seeing local commerce
Which Phnom Penh Market Should You Visit?
The answer depends on what you want to experience.
| If you want... | Try... |
|---|---|
| Famous Phnom Penh landmark | Central Market |
| Cambodian souvenirs | Russian Market |
| Local everyday shopping | Orussey Market |
| Fabric and clothing | Olympic Market |
| Fresh food | Kandal / Old Market |
| Riverside evening | Phnom Penh Night Market |
| Neighborhood market | BKK Market |
| Wholesale-style shopping | Orussey / Olympic Market |
| Photography | Central Market |
| Authentic local atmosphere | Orussey / Old Market |
Central Market vs Russian Market
These are the two markets most likely to appear on a first-time visitor's itinerary.
Here's the simple difference:
Central Market
Think:
Architecture + jewelry + souvenirs + general shopping
The Art Deco building itself is a major attraction.
Russian Market
Think:
Souvenirs + clothing + crafts + food + bargaining
The atmosphere is more crowded and maze-like.
If you have enough time, visit both.
They offer very different experiences.
Tourist Market vs Local Market
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is assuming that every Cambodian market is designed for tourists.
They aren't.
More tourist-friendly
- Central Market
- Russian Market
- Phnom Penh Night Market
These are easier for visitors who want souvenirs, shopping and recognizable attractions.
More local
- Orussey Market
- Kandal Market
- Old Market
- Depo Market
- Pochentong Market
- BKK Market
These are more useful if your goal is to see everyday Cambodian life.
What Should You Buy in Phnom Penh Markets?
Here are some ideas for souvenirs and useful purchases.
Krama
The traditional Cambodian checked scarf is one of the easiest souvenirs to pack.
Look for different colors, patterns and materials.
Silk
Cambodian silk products can make attractive gifts.
Look for:
- Scarves
- Bags
- Clothing
- Fabric
Cambodian Clothing
You may find traditional clothing as well as modern Cambodian-made clothing.
Handmade Crafts
Look for:
- Wooden products
- Decorative items
- Small sculptures
- Handmade bags
- Local artwork
Spices and Food Products
If you enjoy cooking, Cambodian spices and packaged food products can be interesting souvenirs.
Remember to check airline and destination-country rules before bringing food products home.
Bargaining at Phnom Penh Markets
Bargaining is common at many Cambodian markets, particularly for souvenirs, clothing and other non-fixed-price products.
But bargaining doesn't need to become a competition.
A simple approach:
Ask the price.
↓
Consider whether it's reasonable.
↓
Offer a lower price politely.
↓
Meet somewhere in the middle if both sides agree.
If the seller refuses your price, simply smile and continue looking.
TravelKH Tip
Don't bargain aggressively over a very small amount.
For many travelers, the difference may be less than the price of a coffee back home.
The market experience is more enjoyable when bargaining stays friendly.
Market Etiquette for Travelers
Markets can be crowded, especially in the morning.
Keep these tips in mind:
Ask before photographing people
Especially vendors and food preparation.
Don't touch everything
Some products are arranged for sale and should be handled only with permission.
Keep your belongings secure
Crowded markets are busy environments. Keep wallets, phones and bags close.
Watch your step
Floors can be wet around fresh-food sections.
Dress comfortably
Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes are best.
Bring small cash
Small denominations make food purchases and small transactions easier.
Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh Markets
There isn't one perfect time for every market.
Early morning – 6:00–9:00 AM
Best for:
- Fresh food
- Local atmosphere
- Photography
- Traditional markets
Late morning – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Best for:
- Shopping
- Souvenirs
- Clothing
- General browsing
Afternoon – 1:00–4:00 PM
Some markets remain open, but the heat can make walking around less comfortable.
Evening – 5:00–9:00 PM
Best for:
- Night Market
- Street food
- Riverside atmosphere
- Casual shopping
A Great One-Day Phnom Penh Market Route
If you really want to explore Phnom Penh's market culture, don't try to visit all ten in one day.
Instead, combine a few that show different sides of the city.
Morning
6:30 AM – Old Market
Start with a traditional local market and see fresh produce and everyday shopping.
↓
8:00 AM – Central Market
Explore the famous Art Deco building and browse souvenirs.
↓
10:00 AM – Orussey Market
See a more local and wholesale-oriented side of Phnom Penh.
↓
Afternoon
Take a break for lunch.
↓
2:00 PM – Russian Market
Explore crafts, clothing, souvenirs and food.
↓
Evening
6:00 PM – Phnom Penh Night Market
Finish the day with street food and a riverside walk.
This gives you a much better picture of Phnom Penh's market culture than visiting only one market.
How Much Money Should You Bring?
You don't need a large budget to explore Phnom Penh's markets.
For a casual market visit, you can bring:
US$10–30
This can cover snacks, drinks and a few small purchases.
If you're shopping for clothing, silk, jewelry or larger souvenirs, bring more.
Cambodia uses the Cambodian riel, while US dollars are also commonly used in many tourist areas and businesses.
For small market purchases, however, having some Cambodian riel can be convenient.
Are Phnom Penh Markets Safe for Tourists?
Markets are generally accessible to travelers, but they are busy public places.
Use normal precautions:
- Keep your phone secure.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
- Use a zipped bag.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep passports and important documents secure at your hotel when possible.
The biggest issue for many first-time visitors is not safety—it is simply getting comfortable with the crowds, narrow aisles and unfamiliar products.
Why Visit Local Markets in Phnom Penh?
You can visit Phnom Penh without going to a market.
But you'll miss an important part of the city.
The Royal Palace shows you Cambodia's royal heritage.
The National Museum shows you Cambodian art and history.
The riverside shows you Phnom Penh's urban life.
The markets show you everyday Cambodia.
They are noisy, colorful, crowded and sometimes chaotic.
And that's exactly what makes them interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous market in Phnom Penh?
Central Market (Phsar Thmei) is one of the city's most recognizable markets and is particularly famous for its distinctive Art Deco architecture. (tourismcambodia.com)
Which market is best for souvenirs?
The Russian Market and Central Market are two popular choices for souvenirs, clothing, crafts and Cambodian products. (tour-cambodia.com)
Which Phnom Penh market is most local?
Orussey Market is a good choice if you want a more local shopping environment. It is less oriented toward tourists and serves local residents and commercial buyers.
What is the difference between Central Market and Kandal Market?
They are different markets. Central Market is Phsar Thmei, while Kandal Market is Phsar Kandal near the riverside.
Can tourists bargain in Phnom Penh markets?
Yes. Bargaining is common for many non-fixed-price products, particularly souvenirs and clothing. Keep negotiations polite and friendly.
What time should I visit a local market?
For fresh food and the strongest local atmosphere, early morning is generally the best time.
Are Phnom Penh markets free to enter?
Yes. Markets generally do not charge an entrance fee. You only pay for what you buy.
Which market is best for food?
Traditional markets such as Old Market, Kandal Market and Central Market have fresh food and prepared-food sections. The Night Market is particularly convenient for an evening street-food experience.
Which market is best for fabric?
Olympic Market is particularly known for fabric and clothing and is also used for wholesale-style shopping. (hotels.com)
Final TravelKH Tip
Don't visit Phnom Penh's markets only because you want to buy souvenirs.
Go because the markets are part of the city itself.
Wake up early and watch vendors prepare their stalls.
Try a breakfast you don't recognize.
Walk through the fresh-food sections.
Listen to the sounds around you.
Then later in the day, visit Russian Market for souvenirs or finish your evening at the riverside Night Market.
If you have only one market to visit, Central Market gives you the easiest introduction.
But if you want to see a more everyday side of Phnom Penh, add Orussey, Kandal or Old Market to your itinerary.
The best market experience isn't necessarily the one where you buy the most. It's the one where you get a better feeling for how Phnom Penh lives.
