Distance: 2 km
Phnom Penh’s Riverside – officially Sisowath Quay – is home to lively bars, eateries, hotels and retail shops. Its promenade along the Tonle Sap River springs to life at dusk with locals taking an evening stroll, playing games or high-stepping to aerobics.
A. Cambo Cruise
Start with a leisurely cruise along the capital’s iconic Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Cambo Cruises offers a series of water jaunts on its luxurious double-decker boat, ranging from its popular sunset dinner cruise to a half-day trip to nearby Silk Island.
Riverside Path, +855 92 290 077, cambocruise.com/en
B. Royal Palace
The Royal Palace and adjacent Silver Pagoda house Cambodia’s official royal residence – filled with well-manicured gardens, regal structures, intimate temples, gifts from foreign leaders and murals that paint a vivid picture of the country’s past. Psst…no bare shoulders or knees, please.
Samdach Sothearos Boulevard, 8am-10.30am, 2pm-5pm daily
C. Wat Ounalom
This highly-revered pagoda dates back to 1443 and serves as the HQ of Cambodian Buddhism. With 44 ornate structures and hundreds of monks on the ground, take a stroll through to admire the intricate artwork – just remember to keep those shoulders and knees covered.
172 Ly Yoat Lay Street, 3 Samdach Sothearos Boulevard, +855 12 890 010, 6am-6pm daily
D. Riverside Park
Popular with lovey-dovey couples and fitness fanatics, take a stroll through this lively park in the evening and check out the street vendors selling snacks, drinks, popcorn, balloons and cuddly toys.
Preah Sisowath Quay, open 24 hours
E. Phnom Penh Night Market
Join the throngs of young Cambodians at this open-air night market packed with stalls that sell everything from clothes to accessories. Fill up on local grub and rock out to live music every Friday and Saturday.
Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, 5pm-11pm daily
F. Juniper Gin Bar
Take in some incredible river views from this 12th floor bar at the Point Hotel. With a menu of international gins, craft beers and wood-fired pizzas, there’s no better place for a sundowner. 12/F, The Point Hotel, 130 Riverside, +855 86 445 901, 5pm-12am daily, juniperginbar.facebook.com
ManulifeMOVE has no association with any of the landmarks, dining venues, galleries or retailers included within this walking guide, selected by LUXE, and disclaims any liability as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.
Photo Credit: Cambo Cruise