Areas to Avoid in Phnom Penh
Cambodia
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Phnom Penh. Which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Areas immediately surrounding the railway station
Can be gritty, less tourist-friendly, and potentially sketchy, especially after dark, with limited amenities for visitors.
Some very remote industrial outskirts
Lack of tourist infrastructure, safety concerns due to isolation, and no points of interest for visitors.
General Safety Tips for Phnom Penh
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy streets. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Tuk-tuk or Grab is recommended for getting around after dark.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise vigilance, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention.
Emergency Number
117 (Police)
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Phnom Penh
- 1Tuk-tuk overcharging (agree on fare beforehand)
- 2Distraction theft (opportunistic snatching of phones/bags)
- 3Fake donation requests
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Riverside
Lively promenade along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, dotted with restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid deserted alleys.
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
Trendy and cosmopolitan area known for its cafes, international restaurants, and expatriate community.
Considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Phnom Penh, with good street lighting and regular police presence.
Chamkarmon (Russian Market Area)
A more local neighborhood centered around the bustling Russian Market, offering a glimpse into daily life with plenty of food stalls and shops.
Generally safe, but be cautious of petty theft in the market itself; street lighting can be poor in some side streets at night.
Safety in Phnom Penh
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise vigilance, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy streets. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Tuk-tuk or Grab is recommended for getting around after dark.
Emergency
117 (Police)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Tuk-tuk overcharging (agree on fare beforehand)
- 2Distraction theft (opportunistic snatching of phones/bags)
- 3Fake donation requests