1. Overview of night market Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia, located in the southern part of the country. Phnom Penh is known for its lively markets, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. The city has undergone rapid development in recent years, with modern skyscrapers and shopping malls alongside traditional markets and street vendors.

Night markets in Phnom Penh are vibrant and bustling places that offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s culture and cuisine. These markets are usually set up in the evenings and are filled with street food vendors, small shops, and local performers. Apart from food, Phnom Penh’s night markets also offer a great opportunity for shopping and enjoying local performances, such as traditional Khmer music and dance shows. Overall, the night markets in Phnom Penh are an exciting and authentic way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and culture.

2. Top Night Market Phnom Penh for travelers

2.1. Phnom Penh Night Market (Phsar Reatrey)

  • Address: Stress 106&108, Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, Campuchia
  • Opening hours: 17:00 – 23:00

Phnom Penh Night Market, also known as Phsar Reatrey, is a popular night market in Cambodia’s capital city of Phnom Penh. Phsar Reatrey is located in the heart of Phnom Penh, near the riverfront and the Royal Palace. Opened in 2010, the night market quickly became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The market was established with the aim of promoting Cambodia’s traditional handicrafts and arts, as well as providing a lively and exciting evening entertainment option. The night market spans several blocks and features a wide variety of stalls and vendors. Visitors can expect to find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to clothing, jewelry, and electronics to local specialties like grilled meats, noodles, and fresh fruit.

2.2. Old Market (Phsar Chas)

  • Address: Old French Quarter, Oknha Plong, Phnom Penh, Campuchia
  • Opening hours: 18:00 – 23:00

Phsar Chas was built in the early 1900s, during the French colonial period. The market served as a trading center for locals and a source of provisions for the French soldiers. After Cambodia gained independence in the 1950s, the market continued to operate and became an important hub for the local community. Phsar Chas is a bustling night market Phnom Penh that sells everything from fresh produce and meat to souvenirs and handicrafts. Visitors can find a variety of items, including clothing, jewelry, artwork, and home goods. The market is also known for its street food, which includes Cambodian specialties like noodle soups, grilled meats, and fresh fruit. The market is also a hub for Cambodian culture, with traditional music and dance performances taking place throughout the day.

2.3. Jet’s Container Night Market

  • Address: HW2P+X3J, National Assembly Street, Phnom Penh, Campuchia
  • Opening hours: 16:00 – 23:00

Another night market Phnom Penh you should know is Jet’s Container Night Market. This is a relatively new addition to Phnom Penh’s night market scene, having opened in 2019. The market is located in the heart of the city and features a unique set of repurposed shipping containers. The market features 224 stalls housed in brightly painted shipping containers. Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of goods and services, including food, clothing, and handicrafts. Food options range from local Khmer cuisine to Thai and Korean dishes. There are also several bars and pubs on-site serving beer and cocktails. In addition, Jet’s Container Night Market offers live entertainment. There is a stage set up for live performances, including music, dance, and comedy shows here.

3. Things to do at night market Phnom Penh

3.1. Try Cambodian foods

3.1.1. Fresh fruit & vegetables

When visiting night market Phnom Penh, you should try fruit and vegetables here because they are so fresh and delicious. The markets offer a wide variety of fresh produce, including tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and dragon fruit, as well as vegetables like leafy greens, cucumbers, and eggplant. Many of the vendors at the markets source their produce from local farms, so you can be sure that the fruits and vegetables are fresh and in season. It’s a great opportunity to try new foods and experience the flavors of Cambodia.

3.1.2. Cambodian street food

Cambodian cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisine, but with its own unique twists. The night markets offer an incredible opportunity to sample a variety of Cambodian street food, including delicious soups, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and sweet treats.

One popular street food dish that can be found in many night markets is “num pang,” a type of Cambodian sandwich made with a crusty French baguette and filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. Another must-try dish is “lok lak,” a traditional Cambodian beef dish that is marinated in lime and black pepper and served with a side of rice and a tangy dipping sauce. When it comes to sweet treats, Cambodian desserts are not to be missed. “Num kroch” a sweet sticky rice cake stuffed with palm sugar and coconut, is a popular choice, as is “bai sach chrouk,” a breakfast dish made with grilled pork and served with rice and a side of pickled vegetables.

3.1.3. Colorful desserts

Another must-try food in night marker Phnom Penh is the colorful desserts. These sweet treats come in a variety of vibrant colors and shapes, and are often made with natural ingredients such as fruit, coconut milk, and sticky rice. One popular dessert is “num ansom chek” a colorful dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and sugar, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed until soft and chewy. The dessert gets its colorful hues from natural food colorings such as pandan leaf, turmeric, and butterfly pea flowers. Another popular dessert is “nom kouay” a Cambodian-style pudding made with coconut milk, rice flour, and sugar, and flavored with pandan leaf. This dessert is often served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded coconut, sliced mango, or chopped peanuts.

3.2. Shop for Souvenirs

Phnom Penh’s night markets are a great place to shop for souvenirs and take home a piece of Cambodia. From traditional handicrafts to trendy fashion items, there is something for everyone in the night markets. One popular souvenir item is traditional Cambodian silk scarves and clothing. These beautiful items come in a variety of colors and patterns and are often made using ancient weaving techniques. You also choose handmade jewelry to give your friends or family as a gift. Many of these items are made by skilled artisans in Cambodia and are one-of-a-kind pieces that can’t be found anywhere else. For those looking for a more cultural souvenir, traditional handicrafts such as carved wooden statues, silk paintings, and handwoven baskets can be found in the night markets. These items are often made using traditional techniques passed down through generations and are a great way to support local artisans.

3.3. Enjoy live music

Night market Phnom Penh is also a great place to enjoy live music and entertainment. Many of the night markets feature a stage or performance area where local musicians and dancers showcase their talents. Visitors can expect to hear a mix of traditional Khmer music, as well as modern pop and rock covers performed by local bands. The live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere of the night markets, and provides a great opportunity to experience Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage through its music and dance. In addition to live music, some night markets also offer other forms of entertainment such as street performers, magic shows, and acrobatic displays. These performances are often free to watch and provide a great way to take a break from shopping and enjoy some entertainment for visitors.

4. Tips for you when visiting night market Phnom Penh

If you’re planning to visit the night markets in Phnom Penh, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

Wear comfortable shoes: Night markets in Phnom Penh can be quite crowded, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in for an extended period of time.

Bring cash: While some night markets may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash with you, as many vendors may only accept cash payments.

Be aware of your surroundings: As with any crowded area, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings to avoid pickpockets or other potential safety issues.

Plan your visit: Some night markets in Phnom Penh are only open on certain days of the week, so be sure to check the opening hours and plan your visit accordingly.

Enjoy the entertainment: Night markets in Phnom Penh often offer live music and other forms of entertainment, so be sure to take some time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience at the night markets in Phnom Penh.

 

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the night market Phnom Penh is a must-visit attraction for tourists who are looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking to sample some of the local street food, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy live music, Phnom Penh’s night markets offer something for everyone. Through this article, Metta Voyage hopes that you can get more interesting information about the night market in Phnom Penh to prepare for your trip.

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