Unmissable Things To Do In Phnom Penh At Night

As night descends and the city is lightened with sparkling lights, Phnom Penh truly comes to life! The city pulses with an unending energy, offering a diverse of activities for night owls. Whether it's dancing until 4 a.m. or enjoying scenic cab rides along the riverside as the sunrise unfolds, the nights in Phnom Penh are not to be missed. If you're unsure about what Phnom Penh nightlife looks like, explore our recommendations for fun things to do in Phnom Penh at night and set out to discover the city's vibrant nightlife!

Is Phnom Penh safe at night?

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, has made significant strides in improving its safety measures in recent years. However, like any major urban center, visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings to ensure a completely comfortable experience. 

Popular areas like the Riverside and BKK1 districts generally boast a lively and secure atmosphere with well-lit streets, bustling night markets, and vibrant nightlife. Nevertheless, avoiding poorly lit or less populated areas is advisable, especially in the late hours. Travelers should take standard precautions such as securing personal belongings and using reputable transportation options.

What To Do In Phnom Penh At Night: A Comprehensive Guide

Wandering around the Phnom Penh night market and savor delectable dishes

Phsa Reatrey Market, also known as Phnom Penh's night market, features a vast area with a central stage where folk music events are held. Travelers will have an opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture while shopping and dining. The stalls cluster around the stage, offering a variety of items, including clothing, footwear, and souvenirs. A tip for foreigners to purchase an item at a reasonable price is bargaining a little bit.

As you approach the market's entrance, the enticing aroma of various cuisines will captivate you. Trying unique insect delicacies like spiders, crickets, frogs, and stalks is highly recommended. Surprisingly, these dishes boast distinctive and delicious flavors, so don't hesitate to sample them! Additionally, the market features familiar dishes with unique tastes, such as rice, vermicelli, noodles, curry, and more.

Visit: Traditional Cambodian food

Wandering around the Phnom Penh night market

Dine by the Mekong River

A Mekong River cruise is undoubtedly the finest way to delve into the wonders of Cambodia, a land renowned for its temples. Having an opportunity to dine on a cruise and navigate the legendary waters of the Mekong River will allow travelers to enjoy a unique experience while uncovering renowned landmarks at night. What’s better than enjoying a delicious Khmer meal while gazing at the shimmering lights reflected on the Mekong River?

Navigate through Pub Street

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, Pub Street is a renowned international destination within the Golden Sorya Mall. This vibrant area is filled with numerous pubs and bars, as well as Western-style and traditional Khmer eateries. After 7 p.m., the street is only used for a pedestrian-only zone. While most establishments are open throughout the day, the peak hours are typically from 5 p.m. to midnight, attracting a bustling crowd even into the late hours.

A unique experience on Pub Street is the fish massage, where individuals can enjoy a foot massage with small fish, commonly known as Dr. Fish Massage. Groups of about 2 to 3 people gather around water blocks, allowing the fish to feed on the dead skin of their feet. This daily activity lasts for 10 minutes and costs only one US dollar.

Read more: Phnom Penh travel cost

Experience the Nightlife on Bassac Lane

Bassac Lane is a prominent street in Phnom Penh, renowned for its vibrant assortment of restaurants, bars, cafes, and pubs. This street is in one of the liveliest neighborhoods, where foreign travelers can enjoy a vibrant Phnom Penh nightlife experience. Local street vendors line the road with various street food, desserts, and smoothies. There are also numerous restaurants that cater Cambodia's finest Khmer cuisine, spanning diverse culinary styles.

Moreover, the lane is known for its bars specializing in meat dishes. The trendy bars in Bassac Lane are not only recognized for their chic decor but also for their impressive array of cocktails and beers. These establishments have become sought-after destinations for tourists, as they offer a delightful blend of stylish ambiance and delectable cuisine.

Visit: Cambodia nightlife

Experiencing the nightlife on Bassac Lane, Phnom Penh

Head To Nagaworld Casino

NagaWorld is well-known as Cambodia's largest and most esteemed casino and entertainment complex. Boasting a wide variety of table games and slot machines, NagaWorld ensures 24 hours of continuous gaming excitement for players at every skill level.

Over time, NagaWorld has evolved into a sophisticated entertainment hub, spanning an expansive area of up to 1.2 square meters. The complex is organized into 13 stories, featuring four distinct sections:

• A sizable casino complex

• Numerous luxury hotel rooms

• Spa facilities

• Restaurants serving a diverse menu of Asian and European cuisine

Relax at Rooftop Bars

A complete nightlife experience can't lack a visit to a night club in Phnom Penh. Enjoy panoramic views of Phnom Penh by unwinding at one of the city's rooftop bars. These bars cater to various cocktail tastes while allowing you to take in the breathtaking sights of the cityscape. Popular rooftop bars include Eclipse Sky Bar and Le Moon at Amanjaya Pancam Hotel.

Joining a night club in Phnom Penh

Top Night Club In Phnom Penh Highly Recommended For Tourists

Whether you enjoy a quiet drink with a view of the serene river or seek a livelier atmosphere, you'll discover a nightlife spot in Phnom Penh that caters to your preferences. We've compiled a list of what we consider the best options for night life in Phnom Penh. Many bars in and around the city offer happy hours, so be sure to check the times to maximize your travel budget without compromising on the enjoyment.

1. Cadillac Bar & Manhattan Lounge

Cadillac Bar & Manhattan Lounge combines the elements of a bar and a restaurant, providing a fantastic ambiance complemented by relaxed music from the '60s. The establishment features a fully stocked bar and an extensive menu of delicious cuisine.

• Address: 219E Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

• Opening hours: Daily from 7 a.m to midnight

2. Candy Bar

Candy Bar is Phnom Penh's premier hostess bar, being well-known for its Khmer cuisine and vibrant hip-hop soundtrack. This bar may be slightly pricier than other bars in the city, yet its exceptional services and lively atmosphere make it worth your money. The venue features a live DJ on weekends, a sports bar, and pool tables, ensuring an entertaining night without a dull moment!

• Address: #24-25 Street 136, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

• Opening hours: 24/7

Candy Bar, Phnom Penh

3. Pontoon

Pontoon is a renowned nightclub in Phnom Penh that travelers should add to their must-do nightlife activities in the city. It has an expansive dance floor, a generously sized bar, and numerous relaxing seating areas. 

The bar operates every night of the week. Each evening at Pontoon offers a distinct theme and features music spun by various DJs. The club hosts a famous cabaret and live drag show every Thursday, with regular appearances by internationally acclaimed DJs. Entrance fees are often applicable on weekends and special events.

• Address: 80 Jayavarman 7 St. (172), Phnom Phen City, Cambodia

• Opening hours: 10 p.m to 5 a.m every day

4. Eclipse Sky Bar

Situated on the 23rd floor of the Phnom Penh Tower, the Eclipse Sky Bar is the city's loftiest rooftop bar and restaurant, where travelers can take in breathtaking panoramic views while savoring a decent cocktail. 

The bar opens around the clock, but the optimal time to experience its allure is late afternoon. During this time, the open space provides the perfect backdrop to witness the mesmerizing sunset. From 9 pm onward, a live band enhances the relaxed atmosphere, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience of Phnom Penh nightlife.

• Address: Phnom Penh Tower, 23rd Floor, Sangkat, 455 Preah Monivong Blvd (93), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

• Opening hours: 24 hours

Whether you prefer a stroll along the river or a night of revelry in the city's bars, experiencing nightlife in Phnom Penh offers you a different look into the dynamic of Cambodia's capital. Travelers may also be interested in learning more about Top 3 things to do in Phnom Penh. Last but not least, don’t forget to get your Cambodia travel ticket so that you can enjoy your trip to the country confidently.