Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
Phnom Penh's legendary Art Deco covered market: a 1937 yellow dome, treasure halls below and intense local life in the heart of the city.
Central Market (Phsar Thmey, "New Market") is one of Phnom Penh's most celebrated landmarks: a bustling daily retail hub and a sunshine-yellow architectural masterpiece in the city centre, used every day by locals and visitors alike.
Architecture & history
Opened in 1937 during the French colonial era, it was designed by architects Jean Desbois and Louis Chauchon. The 26-metre central dome with four vaulted wings was once reputed to be the largest covered market in Asia. The layout maximises natural ventilation to stay cool in the tropics — the site was formerly a swampy lake drained before construction.
Market layout
Under the dome : gold, silver, jewellery and luxury vintage watches. The four wings : electronics, stationery, homeware, Khmer silk and footwear. Outdoor perimeter : flowers, tropical fruit, seafood and meat. Food section : iced coffee, nom banh chok, spring rolls and local desserts — renowned Cambodian breakfasts around the market.
Hours : daily 7:00 AM–6:00 PM. Address : Calmette St. 53, Phnom Penh. KHR and USD accepted; bargain for clothes, souvenirs and electronics (fresh produce prices are often fixed).
Under the yellow dome, between glittering gold and the scent of nom banh chok, Phsar Thmey packs Phnom Penh into one place: monument, market and street theatre.
Jean-Pierre & Géraldine
What to explore
- Central dome — jewellery, gold and silver
- Four wings — fashion, electronics, silk, homeware
- Outdoor walkways — flowers, fruit, wet market
- Khmer street food and local breakfast
- Art Deco architecture and stall photography
Photo gallery
Practical info
- Address: Phsar Thmey, Calmette (St. 53), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Hours: Daily: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM