What makes Phnom Penh one of the most celebrated urban destinations in the world today? According to the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, Cambodia’s capital has earned an impressive 10th place ranking in the “Best Big Cities” category, placing it alongside global powerhouses renowned for their culture, cuisine, and visitor experience. This remarkable achievement reflects not just the city’s rapid growth, but also its unique ability to blend tradition, history, and modern energy into a captivating experience for travelers.
Now in its 38th edition, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global travel industry. Each year, millions of readers cast their votes to celebrate their favorite travel experiences across categories such as cities, hotels, islands, and airlines. This year, an astounding 757,109 readers participated, with Phnom Penh emerging as one of the world’s most compelling and fast-evolving urban destinations.
Read more: 5 Romantic Reasons Why Angkor Wat Is the World’s New Hotspot for Marriage Proposals
So, what exactly draws travelers from around the globe to Phnom Penh? Condé Nast Traveler paints a vivid picture of the city’s irresistible charm: “Whether it’s the slurp-able noodles, regality of taking an afternoon tea at Raffles, or an evening cruise down the Mekong River, Phnom Penh is just the place to experience Cambodia’s beauty and culture.” The magazine also highlights the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, which “glimmer with embedded details crafted from emeralds and diamonds,” offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s royal artistry. Meanwhile, the bustling Russian Market remains a vibrant symbol of local life and trade, “selling everything from ornate wood carvings to local spices to traditional Khmer instruments.”
Read more: Why Pubstreet in Siem Reap popular? What can I do there ?
Beyond its cultural treasures, Phnom Penh also invites reflection on Cambodia’s profound history. Visitors are encouraged to “learn about the Cambodian genocide at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which confront the nation’s difficult history under the Khmer Rouge regime and serve as sobering yet worthwhile reminders of how far Cambodia has come today.” These historical landmarks serve as essential experiences for travelers seeking to understand the resilience and renewal of the Cambodian spirit.
Phnom Penh’s recognition is not only a tribute to its beauty and heritage but also to the country’s thriving tourism revival and cultural renaissance. The capital’s growing appeal reflects a broader regional trend in Southeast Asia, where cities are embracing modern innovation while preserving deep-rooted traditions.
Read more: Are Chinese Tourists the Key to Cambodia’s Tourism Boom?
Founded in 1987, Condé Nast Traveler remains one of the world’s most influential voices in luxury travel, inspiring millions of global explorers through its presence across digital, print, video, and social platforms. Phnom Penh’s inclusion in its 2025 list not only celebrates the city’s allure but also signals its growing recognition as a world-class destination where history, culture, and modern hospitality meet in perfect harmony.
Source: Condé Nast Traveler