One of the best ways to experience Phnom Penh is on foot.
While the city is often seen as a gateway to Angkor Wat or Cambodia’s beaches, spending a day wandering around the riverside reveals a different side of the capital. Historic landmarks, local life, colonial architecture, museums, temples, and parks are all surprisingly close together.
If you’re staying at Amanjaya Pancam Suites Hotel, many of Phnom Penh’s most visited attractions are just a short walk away. From royal landmarks and centuries-old temples to bustling local markets and modern museums, you can discover a surprising amount of the city without spending much time in traffic.
1. WAT OUNNALOM
Walking Distance: Less than 1 minute
Located almost next door to our hotel, Wat Ounnalom is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Cambodia.
The peaceful compound offers a quiet contrast to the energy of the riverside outside.
Take a few minutes to step inside, observe daily life at the monastery, and admire the traditional Khmer architecture.
2. Riverside park
Walking Distance: Less than 1 minute
The riverside promenade is Phnom Penh at its most relaxed.
In the early morning, you’ll find locals exercising and enjoying the cooler weather. By sunset, families, street vendors, and travelers gather along the river to enjoy the breeze and watch the city slow down.
It’s also one of the best places in the city for people-watching.
3. Phsar Kandal
Walking Distance: Around 2 minutes
If you want to see everyday Phnom Penh, head to Phsar Kandal.
Unlike markets designed mainly for tourists, this bustling wet market is where locals shop for fresh vegetables, meat, seafood, fruits, and household essentials.
It’s also where you can sample Cambodian breakfast dishes, local snacks, fresh juices, and Cambodian-styled coffee.
The market can feel busy and chaotic, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting. It’s a glimpse into the daily rhythm of the city that many visitors miss.
4. National Museum of Cambodia
Walking Distance: Around 5 minutes
The National Museum houses one of the world’s most important collections of Khmer art and artifacts.
Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, the museum’s beautiful courtyard and traditional terracotta buildings are worth the visit. Inside, you’ll find sculptures and relics that help tell the story of Cambodia’s rich past.
5. Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
Walking Distance: Around 7 minutes
No first trip to Phnom Penh is complete without visiting the Royal Palace.
The complex remains the official residence of Cambodia’s King and showcases some of the country’s finest Khmer architecture. Within the grounds, the Silver Pagoda displays treasured national artifacts and religious objects.
Remember to dress respectfully, as this remains an active royal and religious site.
6. Central Market
Walking Distance: Around 15–20 minutes
Recognizable by its distinctive yellow Art Deco dome, Central Market has been a Phnom Penh landmark since 1937.
Inside, you’ll find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to local snacks, jewelry, clothing, and fresh produce. Even if shopping isn’t on your itinerary, the architecture alone makes it worth a visit.
7. Wat Phnom
Walking Distance: Around 15–20 minutes
Perched on a small hill, Wat Phnom is the temple that gave Phnom Penh its name.
The shaded grounds offer a pleasant escape from the city streets, and the hilltop temple remains an important spiritual site for locals. It’s a popular place to learn a little about the legends and history behind Cambodia’s capital.
8. Sosoro Museum
Walking Distance: Around 13 minutes
One of Phnom Penh’s newest museums, SOSORO Museum offers a fascinating look at Cambodia’s economic and monetary history.
Through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and engaging displays, visitors can learn how trade, currency, and finance have shaped Cambodia over the centuries. Even if economics isn’t usually your thing, the museum does an impressive job of making the subject accessible and surprisingly engaging.
It’s a modern museum experience and a refreshing alternative to the city’s more traditional historical attractions.
9. Phnom Penh Night Market
Walking Distance: Around 10 minutes
As the sun sets, Phnom Penh Night Market comes to life along the riverside.
Open daily from 5:00PM to 11:00PM, the market is a popular stop for both locals and visitors looking for affordable shopping and casual street food. You’ll find stalls selling clothing, shoes, accessories, souvenirs, and small gifts to take home.
At the back of the market, rows of food vendors serve local snacks, grilled dishes, fresh fruit, and Cambodian favorites. Grab a seat, order a few dishes, and enjoy a relaxed evening among families, students, and fellow travelers.
It’s not the place for luxury shopping, but it’s a great spot to experience Phnom Penh’s evening atmosphere and pick up a few souvenirs along the way.
10. Chaktomuk Weekend Walk Street
Walking Distance: Less than 1 minute
If you’re staying at Amanjaya Pancam Suites Hotel on a Saturday or Sunday evening, you’re already there.
Every weekend from 6:00PM to 11:00PM, the riverside road in front of the hotel transforms into Chaktomuk Weekend Walk Street. Traffic is closed off, and the area fills with families, street performers, local vendors, food stalls, and people enjoying the cooler evening air along the river.
Why Stay in the Riverside Area?
Many visitors underestimate how walkable central Phnom Penh can be.
Staying in the riverside district means spending less time in traffic and more time exploring. From Amanjaya Pancam Suites Hotel, you can comfortably reach many of the city’s key attractions, restaurants, cafés, bars, and cultural sites without needing a tuk-tuk for every journey.
After a day of sightseeing, you can return to spacious rooms overlooking the city, enjoy authentic Khmer fine dining at Sombok Restaurant, or head upstairs to Le Moon Rooftop for breathtaking views over the river and city.
Sometimes, the best way to discover Phnom Penh is simply to start walking.
