Phnom Penh City Centre is an intriguing place to visit. Here, ancient architecture springs up on busy streets filled with tuk tuks. With history and the throng of everyday life, there is a rush of authenticity in the way that Cambodians interact with their capital. Phnom Penh has relatively few conventional tourist sites but is designed for people-watching. After going on a tour of the area’s pagodas and royal palaces, relax with a cool drink on a terrace and watch the river and the city’s people go by.

Relax on the grounds of the Royal Palace, not far from the river, where gilt arches shimmer in the hot sun. A few steps away, cool down in the halls of the National Museum of Cambodia, which exhibits artifacts of Khmer history alongside celebrations of the country’s bounteous natural life. Proceed to the bevy of religious sites in the center, from the Silver Pagoda to Wat Phnom, legendary site of the city’s founding.

Shop in the Old Market’s stalls. Stroll past aromatic fresh fruit stands and hawkers of local silk at the Kandal Market then view the impressive architecture of the Central Market. See how history is marked at the tall Independence Monument and celebrate Southeast Asian cooperation at the Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument.

Reaching Phnom Penh City Centre and getting around the city is easy. Drive east from Phnom Penh International Airport for about 20 minutes. The capital’s railway stations and ferry ports are both located in the city center. In addition to tuk tuks and motorcycle taxis, several air-conditioned buses run along the city’s main axes. Car rental is available from the airport as well as a few other locations, but is generally not necessary in the city.

After taking in the urban attractions of Phnom Penh City Centre, make a trip south to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center to get a sense of Cambodian wilderness without traveling far from the city.