Old Market Phsar Chas - Vintage film photo of a market
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Old Market Phsar Chas

4.2
·2k reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A bustling, authentic local market offering a vibrant slice of Cambodian life, from fresh produce to unique souvenirs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Lively local activity

CrowdHigh
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Old Market Phsar Chas - Vintage film photo of a market

Old Market Phsar Chas

Best Time

Morning

Lively local activity

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling, authentic local market offering a vibrant slice of Cambodian life, from fresh produce to unique souvenirs.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"It's a real working market where locals shop every day, and that's exactly what makes it interesting."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Bargain with a Smile

Prices are low, but bargaining is part of the fun! Start around 50% and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:

🎒 Secure Your Belongings

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep bags close and secure. :shield:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Food Stalls

Vibrant Food Stalls

Central Market Area

Sample exotic fruits, local snacks, and freshly prepared dishes. A true taste of Cambodian street food.

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Outer Aisles

Discover unique textiles, carvings, and gifts. Perfect for finding authentic souvenirs at good prices.

Fresh Produce Displays

Fresh Produce Displays

Produce Section

Marvel at the colorful array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. A feast for the eyes and a glimpse into local life.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Phsar Chas is a bustling local market, not a polished tourist trap. Expect a vibrant, sometimes chaotic atmosphere. Bargaining is expected, but do so respectfully. Keep an eye on your belongings, as some reviewers mention opportunistic individuals.

Timing is Key for Authenticity

Visit in the morning for the freshest produce and liveliest local activity. While it's open later, some vendors may start packing up. The adjacent night market offers a different, more tourist-oriented experience.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Lively local activity
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, good for gifts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Markets- Siem Reap

🤝 Bargain with a Smile

Prices are low, but bargaining is part of the fun! Start around 50% and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:

🎒 Secure Your Belongings

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep bags close and secure. :shield:

reddit.com

any good recommendations for Phnom Penh?

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot and humid! Carry water or buy fresh juices from vendors. :droplet:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Bargain with a Smile

Prices are low, but bargaining is part of the fun! Start around 50% and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:

🎒 Secure Your Belongings

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep bags close and secure. :shield:

💧 Stay Hydrated

It gets hot and humid! Carry water or buy fresh juices from vendors. :droplet:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Colors

The market is incredibly photogenic, especially the food and produce sections. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phsar Chas offers a truly authentic local market experience, brimming with vibrant sights, sounds, and smells. Visitors appreciate the affordability and the wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to unique souvenirs. However, some find the market chaotic, with strong odors in food sections, and advise caution regarding personal belongings due to opportunistic individuals.

"I can't recommend the Old Marked to tourists, sorry, this market is for locals, and I respect that. Still, I don't appreciate being seen as a bag of walking money or as something to so obviously ridicule. One of the fruit stands wanted 20000 riel (5 dollars) for a papaya, I tried to joke and say loy tik tik (a little too much money-?) But they weren't interested in any attempt at a fun little haggle, in fact it had the opposite effect- and now they spoke neither Khmer or English. I liked the flower shops and displays - Now it's seven dollars, haha. Also the stench from sewers is bad. Perhaps the unusually sour mood here was due because it was bucketing down - not a lot of loy going around, but more importantly,be cautious ⚠️ of some light-shy individuals hanging around here- guys on motorcycles with black helmets that will not hesitate to snatch your bag at whatever risk that might entail for you, or them! One light shone, though - was one really nice elderly lady drew me in and sheltered me from the rain. That was extremely kind. She gave me a big plastic bag for my drenched belongings. In fact, she scolded her young son/grandson for not having done so immediately🪷. And so, this lone star 🌟 is for her."

Åse Ingeborg

"It's definitely worth a visit. Lots of great stuff. Good prices. You can negotiate too. Gifts galore to take back to family. A real hit. I'm glad I didn't skip this one. Try it and you'll get a different view of things."

Rasta Rebel

"Good market all around, lots of shops and lots of food to try for sure. The price is good compared to other markets in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Make sure you bargain a little event though the price is cheap, it’s all part of the fun."

Po Huang

What People Like

Authentic local atmosphere
Affordable prices
Variety of goods

What People Dislike

Strong smells
Crowded conditions
Potential for petty theft

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Phsar Chas is centrally located in Siem Reap, making it easily accessible by tuk-tuk or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Many tuk-tuk drivers know it as the 'Old Market' or 'Phsar Chas'. Reddit

Parking can be a bit chaotic around the market. Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient mode of transport. If arriving by motorbike, expect to find designated parking areas nearby, though they can fill up.

Your hotel can likely arrange a tuk-tuk for you. Negotiate the price beforehand, and confirm it's for Phsar Chas. It's a short ride from most central Siem Reap accommodations. Reddit

Public transport in Siem Reap is limited. Tuk-tuks are the de facto public transport for tourists and locals alike. Buses are not a common option for reaching this specific market.

The Old Market is about a 20-30 minute tuk-tuk ride from Siem Reap International Airport (REP), depending on traffic. It's a good first stop after arriving.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Old Market. It's a public market, and you can wander through freely. Reddit

The market is generally open daily from early morning (around 6 AM) until late afternoon or early evening (around 6 PM). Some sections might close earlier than others. Reddit

The market is most vibrant and busiest in the morning, especially between 7 AM and 11 AM, when locals do their daily shopping for fresh produce. Reddit

Yes, the market is typically open on public holidays, though hours might be slightly adjusted. It's a place that operates daily for the local community.

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of them or their goods. Be mindful of people's privacy. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including textiles, silk scarves, wooden carvings, silver jewelry, spices, and local handicrafts. It's a great place for authentic gifts. Reddit

Yes, bargaining is expected and part of the cultural experience. Start with an offer around 50% of the asking price and negotiate respectfully. Reddit

Explore the various stalls throughout the market. Prices can vary, so compare a few vendors before making a purchase. The outer sections often have a good selection. Reddit

For packaged spices and dried fruits from reputable-looking stalls, it's generally safe. However, always use your judgment and consider the hygiene of the stall. Reddit

Look for traditional Khmer crafts, locally made soaps, unique spice blends, and perhaps even some antique-looking items (though authenticity can vary). Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

You can find a huge array of local Cambodian dishes, including fresh fruits, grilled meats, noodle soups, curries, and various snacks. It's a great place to experience street food. Reddit

Prices are generally very affordable compared to tourist restaurants. You can get a filling meal for just a few dollars. Reddit

Try local fruits like rambutan or dragon fruit, grilled skewers, Khmer noodles (Kuy Teav), and various sweet desserts. Be adventurous! Reddit

While it's a local market, some areas, especially the food section, can be overwhelming due to smells and heat. Use your discretion and choose stalls that appear clean and busy. Reddit

Yes, there are many restaurants and eateries located around and adjacent to the Old Market, offering a more comfortable dining experience. It's also next to the night market. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

It's a lively, bustling, and sometimes chaotic local market. Expect crowds, noise, vibrant colors, and a strong sense of daily Cambodian life. Reddit

It can be an interesting experience, but the crowds, heat, and strong smells might be overwhelming for very young children. Keep a close eye on them. Reddit

Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat and humidity. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dress is appreciated, especially when interacting with vendors. Reddit

Restroom facilities may be available but can be basic. It's advisable to use facilities at your hotel or a nearby restaurant if you prefer more comfort. Reddit

Old Market (Phsar Chas) is primarily a daytime local market for daily goods, while the Night Market is more geared towards tourists with souvenirs, food, and entertainment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Old Market Phsar Chas with children can be an adventure, but it requires preparation. The vibrant sights and sounds can be captivating for kids, especially the colorful fruit and food stalls. However, the crowds, heat, and strong smells in certain sections might be overwhelming for younger children. Reddit

Recommendations: Stick to the less crowded outer aisles, focus on visually interesting stalls like fresh produce or crafts, and consider visiting during slightly less busy times. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and keep a very close eye on children at all times due to the bustling environment. It might be best suited for families with older children who can navigate crowds more easily.

💰 Budget Travelers

Phsar Chas is a paradise for budget travelers. It's one of the best places to find affordable souvenirs, local snacks, and even meals without breaking the bank. The prices here are significantly lower than in dedicated tourist shops. Reddit

Tips: Master the art of polite bargaining to get the best prices. Look for local snacks and fruits for cheap and delicious eats. Compare prices across different vendors before committing to a purchase. This market is where you can truly experience local life and shop like a local.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Old Market is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of vibrant colors, textures, and candid moments. The fresh produce sections, bustling food stalls, and the interactions between vendors and shoppers provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. TikTok

Tips: Visit in the morning for the best natural light and the most authentic activity. Be respectful when photographing people; always ask for permission before taking close-up shots. Look for details – the intricate patterns on textiles, the arrangement of spices, or the expressions on faces.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Sensory Experience

Phsar Chas is a full-on sensory immersion. The air is thick with the aroma of fresh produce, spices, and grilled meats, mingling with the occasional less pleasant scent from the food sections. Visually, it's a kaleidoscope of colors – vibrant fruits, piles of fresh herbs, and the diverse array of goods on display. The sounds are a constant hum of chatter, bargaining, and the general bustle of a working market. It's this raw, unfiltered energy that makes it so authentic. Reddit

For first-time visitors, it can be a bit overwhelming. Reviewers suggest embracing the chaos rather than fighting it. Focus on one section at a time, whether it's the dazzling fruit displays, the rows of clothing, or the tempting food stalls. Don't be afraid to engage with vendors, even if it's just a smile and a nod. The market is a living, breathing entity, and being present in its rhythm is key to enjoying the experience. Reddit

The Art of Bargaining at Phsar Chas

Bargaining is an integral part of the shopping experience at Old Market Phsar Chas. It's not just about getting a lower price; it's a social interaction and a cultural norm. Vendors expect it, and it's often done with a friendly demeanor. A common strategy is to offer about 50% of the initial asking price and then negotiate upwards until you reach a price that both parties are happy with. Reddit

Remember to remain polite and good-humored throughout the negotiation. If a price isn't right for you, it's perfectly acceptable to politely decline and move on. Some visitors have noted that in certain sections, prices might be slightly higher for tourists, so comparing prices across different stalls is a good idea. The key is to have fun with it and see it as part of the adventure. Reddit

Safety and Security Tips for Visitors

While Phsar Chas is a vibrant and generally safe place to visit, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Some reviewers have mentioned opportunistic individuals, particularly those on motorcycles, who might attempt to snatch bags. It's recommended to keep your valuables secure and close to your body. Reddit

Avoid displaying expensive items openly and be mindful of your phone when taking pictures. The market can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours, so maintaining awareness is crucial. If you encounter any issues, don't hesitate to seek assistance from market staff or local authorities. Reddit

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