Backpacking Southern Cambodia 34/41: Walk Around Phnom Penh - A 1-Hour Stroll in Phnom Penh

Backpacking Southern Cambodia 34/41: Walk Around Phnom Penh - A 1-Hour Stroll in Phnom Penh with mr.hotsia

Hello everyone, I'm mr.hotsia back again with real-life stories from the capital city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Many people often see it as just a stopover before continuing their journey elsewhere, but for me, a 1-hour walk in Phnom Penh can capture the local atmosphere and life as intensely as anywhere else.

This time, I set out with a heart eager to experience the true essence of the city located at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap River. These two rivers meet in Phnom Penh before flowing onward to the sea in Vietnam — this unique geographical location gives Phnom Penh its distinctive charm unlike any other city.

Starting the city walk from the heart of Phnom Penh

After arriving at Phnom Penh Bus Station, a key transport hub connecting buses to various provinces in Cambodia (for those interested, you can read more details aboutPhnom Penh Bus Stationwhich I have described in detail before), I didn’t waste time and quickly started walking along the main streets in the old town area.

The first thing I noticed was the lively atmosphere of people, both locals and tourists blending harmoniously. Street shops lined the roads selling local Khmer food with inviting aromas that made me hungry. I passed by the bustling morning fresh market filled with lively conversations and the scent of fresh food fromPhnom Penh Fresh Marketwhich I have previously captured in videos for you to see.

Taste and lifestyle through Khmer food

Speaking of Khmer food, I didn’t miss trying the famous Khmer roasted duck in Phnom Penh, which has a mild and unique flavor very different from our local roasted duck. (If you want to see the atmosphere of me eating roasted duck, you can watchEating Khmer Roasted Duck in Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh))

In just 1 hour walking around this area, you will see a simple daily life full of energy from Khmer people who still firmly preserve their culture and traditions. I often sit sipping local coffee at small roadside shops, watching people pass by — children in school uniforms, street vendors, and friendly merchants greeting with warm smiles.

Tips and tidbits from mr.hotsia

For those planning to travel onward from Phnom Penh, for example to Takeo Province, I recommend using the bus service from Sorya Tour company which offers air-conditioned buses. Although not very cold, it’s still better than regular local buses. The trip takes about 2 and a half hours, passing through Kandal Province before reaching Takeo. (You can read details atBus from Phnom Penh to Takeo Province)

Or if anyone is interested in visiting the old capital city Udong, which was Cambodia’s capital before Phnom Penh, I suggest setting aside half a day as you need to rent a car for the trip. (I have passed by but haven’t had the chance to stop yet.) You can read more about this city atUdong City, Udong Capital, Phnom Penh

Impressions after walking around Phnom Penh

Although I only spent 1 hour walking in Phnom Penh, it was enough for me to deeply absorb the life and atmosphere of this city. I saw the contrast between its past as the capital of the Khmer Empire and its present, rapidly recovering and growing.

If you want to know Phnom Penh beyond just passing through or guided tours, I, mr.hotsia, recommend trying to walk around by yourself. Open your heart to the sounds, laughter, food aromas, and smiles of the locals. You will experience a different and more beautiful feeling than you imagined.

Follow more of my stories

For those interested in watching the full atmosphere of walking around Phnom Penh, you can watch the video “Backpacking Southern Cambodia 34/41: Walk Around Phnom Penh - A 1-Hour Stroll in Phnom Penh” which I streamed from the heart herehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=975IgemKjd0

Additionally, I have other interesting articles about traveling and tourism in Cambodia such asPhnom Penh Travel Information (Phnom Penh 2012)andTraveling from Siem Reap to Phnom Penhwhich will help enrich your knowledge and inspire your trip.

Finally, I must say Cambodia is not just a dream destination full of temples and history, but also has an incredibly warm and interesting daily life of its people. I hope everyone opens their heart and you will fall in love with Phnom Penh just like mr.hotsia.