Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Cambodia’s vibrant capital has been ranked 10th in the world in the Best Big Cities category of the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, earning global recognition for its culture, cuisine, architecture, and authentic visitor experiences.
Now in its 38th year, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards remain one of the world’s most prestigious travel honors, celebrating destinations and experiences that inspire travelers worldwide. In 2025, more than 757,000 readers cast their votes across categories including cities, hotels, islands, and airlines—placing Phnom Penh firmly among the world’s most compelling and emerging urban destinations.
Condé Nast Traveler highlighted Phnom Penh’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, describing it as “a place to experience Cambodia’s beauty and culture—whether it’s savoring slurp-able noodles, enjoying afternoon tea at Raffles, or taking a sunset cruise down the Mekong River.”
The publication also praised Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, “which glimmer with intricate details crafted from emeralds and diamonds,” and the bustling Russian Market, where “vendors sell everything from ornate wood carvings to local spices to traditional Khmer instruments.”
For visitors seeking historical insight, the magazine noted that “sites of remembrance such as the Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum confront the nation’s difficult history under the Khmer Rouge regime and serve as sobering yet important reminders of how far Cambodia has come today.”
Founded in 1987, Condé Nast Traveler is recognized globally as an authority on luxury travel and cultural exploration. With editions in seven international markets, the brand reaches millions of readers across print, digital, and social media platforms—continuing to shape the way the world discovers destinations like Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh’s inclusion in this elite list underscores the Cambodian capital’s growing global reputation as a dynamic, welcoming, and culturally rich city, where ancient traditions meet modern aspirations.
Also read, Cambodia Ranks Among the World’s Friendliest Nations, Placing 5th in Global Survey
