An Afternoon of Contemporary Art in Phnom Penh by Tuk Tuk

Travelers looking to explore Phnom Penh beyond its historic sites will find this Contemporary Art Tour offers a refreshing glimpse into Cambodia’s modern cultural landscape. Organized by Urban Forage Food and Art Tours, this experience promises an energetic blend of street art, galleries, and a relaxed social finale—all wrapped in a compact afternoon.

What makes it stand out? First, you’ll love the visibility of over 40 street murals, showcasing the city’s urban creativity. Second, the visit to Cambodia’s largest outdoor gallery provides a large-scale perspective on how local artists are transforming public spaces. Third, the canapés and cocktails in a lush garden setting offer a perfect way to unwind while soaking in Phnom Penh’s vibrant arts scene.

The only caveat? Since the tour involves some walking and navigating alleyways, comfortable shoes are a must. Also, with a price tag of $45, it offers good value for an art-focused activity that combines guided insights with local flavor. This tour appeals most to art lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in understanding modern Cambodian culture in a lively, approachable way.

Key Points

• Urban Creativity: Visit over 40 street art murals across the city, revealing Phnom Penh’s emerging contemporary scene.
• Curated Art Scene: Explore a favorite contemporary gallery and Cambodia’s largest open-air gallery for a broad view of local talent.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable local guides who share stories and insights that give context to the art.
• Relaxed Finale: End with cocktails and canapés in a beautiful city garden, making it as much about socializing as viewing.
• Flexible Options: Available as a private or shared experience, catering to different travel styles.
• Excellent Value: At $45, it offers a comprehensive, engaging afternoon that combines culture, art, and leisure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting with a Scenic Tuk Tuk Ride

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in a comfortable tuk tuk—an ideal way to see the city from a local’s perspective. For those staying centrally, the pickup is straightforward, and the relaxed ride sets the tone for what’s to come. The tuk tuk itself isn’t just transport; it becomes part of the adventure, weaving through narrow alleys and vibrant neighborhoods.

One reviewer, Malikah, appreciated the guide’s knack for uncovering hidden gems, mentioning, “Our guide knew all the hidden gems and it was incredible to see this part of contemporary Cambodian art & culture.” This personalized touch ensures you’re not just following a map but experiencing Phnom Penh through a local lens.

Exploring Street Art Murals

The core of the day involves visiting over 40 murals spread throughout various city corners. These murals are more than graffiti; they are canvases of expression reflecting Cambodia’s social, cultural, and political narratives. The guided tour allows you to see these works from different angles and understand the stories behind them.

Ribot, another reviewer, noted, “Great tour and explanations of local street art. With a culinary stop.” This highlights the blend of visual art and storytelling that guides provide, making the murals accessible and meaningful rather than just colorful walls.

Visiting Contemporary Art Galleries

One of the highlights is a visit to the tour’s favorite contemporary gallery. Here, you’ll find a curated collection of local and national artists, showcasing the country’s modern artistic talents. The gallery visit offers a more polished, indoor contrast to street murals, and the guide will likely share insights into the artists’ motivations and techniques.

Pedro Javier found this aspect particularly engaging, saying, “Everything was extremely professional and well organized, while being flexible and tailored to my interests.” This flexibility means the guide can adapt to your specific curiosities, ensuring a personalized experience.

Cambodia’s Largest Open-Air Gallery

Next, the tour takes you to Cambodia’s biggest outdoor gallery, a space where urban art is displayed on large walls and public spaces. This open-air setting allows for a broader perspective on how street art interacts with the city’s architecture and daily life. It’s a chance to witness how art is transforming cityscapes and engaging communities.

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The Garden Bar Finale

After a full afternoon of exploring, the tour concludes at a beautiful garden speakeasy. Here, you can enjoy cocktails and canapés, often accompanied by current photo exhibits or local art displays. This setting is not only relaxing but also offers another layer of cultural insight, connecting the art you’ve just seen with a social, convivial atmosphere.

Pedro Javier praised this part, noting, “A hidden garden cocktail bar that was showcasing local talent.” It’s the perfect way to reflect on what you’ve seen and mingle with fellow art enthusiasts.

Additional Details and Practicalities

• The tour lasts approximately 3-4 hours, making it a manageable afternoon activity.
• It’s offered as both a private or shared experience, so you can choose the option that best suits your style.
• The cost—$45 per person—includes tuk tuk transportation, guided commentary, gallery visits, and the garden bar experience.
• They recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes due to the urban nature of the tour and the need to explore alleys and street murals.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

The consistent praise from guests highlights the tour’s quality. Malikah emphasized the personal connection, saying, “This was a great way to round out our trip, which had focused on a lot of the past/history, as it gave some insights into modern Cambodian culture.” This suggests the tour is particularly beneficial for those who want a broader cultural understanding beyond the traditional temple visits.

Ribot appreciated the storytelling element, mentioning, “Thanks for the discoveries,” which underscores the value of the guide’s knowledge. Meanwhile, other reviewers highlighted the effect of seeing Phnom Penh’s less touristy corners—”from forgotten neighborhoods to indoor and outdoor galleries”—making the experience both authentic and inspiring.

This Afternoon of Contemporary Art in Phnom Penh offers a well-rounded, engaging, and culturally enriching experience for travelers who want to see a different side of Cambodia. The combination of vibrant street murals, curated galleries, and a relaxing garden bar makes it ideal for art lovers, culture vultures, and curious explorers alike.

The flexible format and reasonable price make this tour accessible without sacrificing depth or authenticity. It’s perfect if you’re looking to spend a few hours uncovering Phnom Penh’s modern creative scene while enjoying local hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a first-time visitor interested in contemporary culture, this tour delivers a lively, insightful, and memorable glimpse into Cambodia’s artistic evolution.

How do I get picked up for this tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for centrally located hotels or you can meet at a designated central meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring alleys and outdoor murals around the city.

Can I book this tour as a private experience?
Yes, you have the option to choose a private tour, which can be tailored to your interests, or join a shared group.

What is included in the price?
The $45 fee covers tuk tuk transportation, an expert English-speaking guide, visits to murals and galleries, plus cocktails and canapés at the end.

Is there flexibility in the tour itinerary?
Guides are known for being flexible and accommodating, allowing for some personalized attention based on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Phnom Penh’s emerging art scene in a relaxed, social setting. It’s perfect for those wanting a meaningful cultural experience that combines visual art, storytelling, and local flavors—all for a reasonable price. Whether you’re into street art, galleries, or simply looking for a unique way to connect with the city, this tour promises memorable moments and plenty of inspiration.

You can check availability for your dates here: