Central Market Phsar Thmei - Hanoi Market
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Central Market Phsar Thmei

4.6
·491k reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Iconic Art Deco market in Phnom Penh, offering everything from souvenirs to local street food. A must-visit landmark!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Central Market Phsar Thmei - Hanoi Market

Central Market Phsar Thmei

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Art Deco market in Phnom Penh, offering everything from souvenirs to local street food. A must-visit landmark!

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A stunning Art Deco landmark filled with treasures and local flavors!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?

USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. :moneybag:

🤝 Bargaining Etiquette

Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Architecture

Art Deco Architecture

The entire market structure

Marvel at the iconic, cross-shaped Art Deco building, a stunning landmark from 1937.

TikTok
Souvenir Hunting

Souvenir Hunting

Various stalls

Find everything from silks and silver to wood carvings and local crafts. Bargain respectfully!

TikTok
Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Food sections

Sample Cambodian snacks, fresh fruits, and local dishes. A true taste of Phnom Penh!

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Currency Matters: USD vs. Riel

While USD is widely accepted at Phsar Thmei, vendors often prefer crisp, tear-free bills. Have smaller Riel denominations handy for exact change or smaller purchases to avoid confusion. Reddit

Navigating the Crowds

This bustling market can get overwhelming. Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience and better photo opportunities. Early mornings are ideal. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Less intense heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Central or Russian market?

🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?

USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. Reddit :moneybag:

🤝 Bargaining Etiquette

Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:

reddit.com

Phnom Penh Central Market

reddit.com

Best shopping in Cambodia?

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot and humid inside. Keep water handy! :droplet:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photos. Capture the essence! :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Best market for souvenirs in Phnom Penh?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Currency: USD or Riel?

USD is common, but vendors prefer crisp bills. Carry Riel for smaller change. Reddit :moneybag:

🤝 Bargaining Etiquette

Bargain respectfully and with a smile. Start lower than you're willing to pay. :handshake:

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot and humid inside. Keep water handy! :droplet:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photos. Capture the essence! :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phsar Thmei is a vibrant hub offering a wide array of goods, from souvenirs to local delicacies, all housed within a stunning Art Deco building. Visitors appreciate the architectural beauty and the sheer variety of items available. However, some find the market overwhelming due to crowds and heat, and bargaining can be a challenge for some.

What People Like

Impressive Art Deco architecture
Vast selection of goods
Authentic local snacks

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Intense heat
Aggressive vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Phsar Thmei is centrally located in Phnom Penh. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or ride-sharing apps. Many hotels are within a short ride. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available for tuk-tuks and cars, though it can get busy during peak hours. TikTok

Depending on your starting point, it might be walkable. It's a good central hub to combine with nearby sights. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Phsar Thmei is free. You only pay for the items you wish to purchase. TikTok

The market is typically open daily from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though some stalls may close earlier or stay open later. TikTok

Phsar Thmei is generally safe, but like any busy market, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can find a vast array of goods including souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, electronics, fresh produce, and local snacks. TikTok

The market's layout can be a bit disorienting, especially in the central dome. It's best to explore with a sense of adventure or note your entry point. TikTok

Yes, restrooms are available within the market, though their cleanliness can vary. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-ups of their stalls or products. TikTok

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

You'll find a variety of local Cambodian dishes, fresh fruits, smoothies, and snacks. It's a great place to try authentic street food. TikTok

While many enjoy the street food, exercise caution. Opt for stalls that look busy and where food is cooked fresh. Reddit

Primarily, you'll find food stalls offering quick bites. For full sit-down meals, you might need to look outside the immediate market area. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The central dome with its intricate structure, the vibrant displays of goods, and the bustling activity of vendors and shoppers are all prime photo opportunities. TikTok

It's best practice to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or shoppers. A smile and a gesture usually suffice. TikTok

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the market's atmosphere and architecture without too many distractions. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Phsar Thmei can be an exciting, albeit overwhelming, experience for families. The sheer variety of goods can capture children's attention, from colorful textiles to unique souvenirs. Encourage kids to spot interesting items or try a new local snack. However, be mindful of the crowds and heat; keep a close eye on children and ensure they stay hydrated. TikTok Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak heat and busiest periods. The food stalls offer opportunities to try new flavors, but stick to freshly prepared items for safety. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Phsar Thmei is a paradise for budget travelers looking for souvenirs and local experiences without breaking the bank. Bargaining is essential here; don't be afraid to negotiate prices respectfully. TikTok Having small denominations of USD and Riel will be very helpful for making exact change and securing good deals. Reddit You can find affordable clothing, handicrafts, and even some local snacks. Focus on items you truly want rather than impulse buys to maximize your budget. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art Deco Gem: Phsar Thmei's Architecture

Phsar Thmei, or the Central Market, is not just a place to shop; it's a historical landmark. Built in 1937 during the French colonial period, its distinctive Art Deco design is a marvel. The cross-shaped structure with its soaring central dome and four wings was once considered one of the largest markets in Asia. Its unique architecture provides a shaded, albeit sometimes humid, environment for shoppers and vendors alike. TikTok

Many visitors are drawn to the market specifically for its aesthetic appeal. The geometric patterns, grand entrances, and the sheer scale of the building make it a photographer's delight. Exploring the different sections under the dome offers a glimpse into the market's past and present, all within a visually striking setting. TikTok

While the market has undergone renovations, its core Art Deco character remains. It’s a testament to the architectural styles of its era and a significant part of Phnom Penh’s urban landscape. Don't miss the chance to admire its grandeur from both inside and outside. Reddit

Navigating Currency and Bargaining

When shopping at Phsar Thmei, understanding the local currency practices is key. While the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted, vendors often have a preference for crisp, tear-free bills. Some travelers have reported issues with slightly damaged USD notes, so it's wise to have pristine currency on hand. Reddit For smaller purchases or when vendors might not have change for larger USD bills, having Cambodian Riel is highly recommended. This can also help you get a more accurate price for items. Reddit

Bargaining is an expected part of the shopping experience here. Approach it with a friendly attitude and a smile. A common strategy is to start your offer at about 50% of the asking price and negotiate upwards. Remember that prices are often inflated for tourists, but vendors also need to make a living. Aim for a price that feels fair to both parties. TikTok Don't be afraid to walk away if you can't reach an agreement; sometimes this can lead to a better offer. TikTok

Be aware that counterfeit USD has been reported in Cambodia, so it's always good to be a little cautious with the bills you receive as change. Reddit Overall, a little preparation regarding currency and a polite approach to bargaining will enhance your shopping experience at Phsar Thmei. :moneybag: :handshake:

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