Central Market
Markets
·
4.4/5 on Google
About
Reviews (5)
Location
The Central Market is a covered marketplace in central Phnom Penh housed in a distinctive Art Deco building with a 26-metre-high central dome and four arching corridors branching diagonally across the block. Built in 1937, it remains a working market where visitors find fresh produce, clothing, toys, jewelry, souvenirs, and services like haircuts and manicures. The layout is expansive and maze-like, with countless stalls crowded into the hallways.
Visitors consistently praise the variety of goods available and the affordability of prices, which remain negotiable. Many note that staff are helpful when shoppers appear lost, and several appreciate the building's distinctive architecture and local atmosphere. However, reviews also flag practical concerns: ventilation is poor and the interior becomes notably warm, many stalls stock similar items, and goods generally lack price tags, requiring haggling. Some visitors find the experience worthwhile primarily for the building itself rather than the shopping.
The market operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Arrive early if you prefer cooler conditions and smaller crowds. This suits travellers seeking an authentic local market experience and those interested in Art Deco architecture, though it is less ideal if you dislike bargaining or heat. Allow time to navigate the corridors without rushing; a casual wander works better here than targeted shopping, since finding specific items can be difficult.
Rated 4.4 out of 5 by 861 travellers on Google
★☆☆☆☆
I went to buy some fruits. I decided to buy some orange jackfruit. I only wanted a few to try. I decided to ask for 5 pieces.
At first they understood I wanted a whole jackfruit, then they understood I wanted a small jackfruit, only to later understand I only wanted a few pieces of it.
They came with a small plastic container, when I said I only wanted 5 the owner was very upset. The stall owner next to her put 2 more pieces of jackfruit in, so, in the end I got 7. I didn't mind much.
I was surprised she charged 8000 for a few pieces of jackfruit. I think it was overpriced but didn't want to haggle. I just wanted to pay and get out of there.
She was very upset because I didn't buy more. It made me feel very uncomfortable.
I tried buying some mandarins but the prices they asked were also sky high. I think they try to trick you if you are not local.
I would not recommend visiting as it was
★★★★★
Central Market truly has everything you could possibly need under one spectacular Art Deco roof. The prices are very affordable to begin with, though there is still room to negotiate. Whether you are looking for fresh produce, children’s toys, or even a bespoke outfit, you’ll find it here. You can even get a haircut and a manicure while you shop!
The layout is expansive, and it is very easy to get turned around in the maze-like aisles. However, that is part of the charm, and the vendors are incredibly helpful. If you look lost, someone is usually quick to point you in the right direction. It’s a must-visit for the architecture alone, but the variety makes it a shopper’s paradise.
★★★☆☆
The Central Market, in Khmer language - Phsar Thum Thmei; meaning "New Grand Market" is a market and an art deco landmark in Phnom Penh, the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The bright yellow building completed in 1937 has a 26-metre high central dome, with four tall arch-roofed arms branching out diagonally across the block, creating vast hallways housing countless stalls and a variety of goods. Initially designed by city architect French national Jean Desbois, construction works were supervised by the French architect Louis Chauchon and the engineer - Russian emigrant from France Vladimir Kandaouroff. When it first opened in 1937, it was said to be the biggest market in Asia; today it still operates as a market.
Since its completion, wet season flooding around the market has remained a problem, a reminder of the marshland it once was. The areas between the four diagonal arms and th
★★★★★
The Central Market is a covered market that immediately impresses with its grand central dome. Beneath the dome, you’ll find countless jewelry stalls, while the surrounding sections offer a wide variety of souvenirs, including clothing, decorative items, and much more.
It’s a vibrant place full of colors, sounds, and local atmosphere. The ventilation could definitely be improved, as it can get quite warm inside.
That said, it’s absolutely worth a visit — whether you’re shopping or simply soaking in the unique market experience.
★★★☆☆
Very warm inside
Many stores but selling the same items. No price tag, need to ask and bargain.
Can go there look look see see the building structure
Just walk 15mins non stop and leave
Nothing special unless you like to buy something that you needs
Reviews published on Google by travellers.
E273 & E274, Central Market, 51 Street 51, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Opening hours
Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 A