Kampot Old Quarter and Riverside
Discover Kampot's charm: colonial architecture in the Old Quarter and serene riverside life with breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kampot Old Quarter and Riverside
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kampot's charm: colonial architecture in the Old Quarter and serene riverside life with breathtaking sunsets.
"The riverside offers a tranquil escape with stunning sunset views, perfect for unwinding."
🌅 Sunset Views
Find a riverside bar or restaurant for the best sunset views. Many offer happy hour specials!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The Old Quarter is best explored by walking to appreciate the details of the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kampot Riverfront Sunset
Riverside
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the tranquil Kampot River. A truly magical end to any day.
Colonial Architecture
Old Quarter
Explore charming streets lined with well-preserved French colonial buildings, offering a glimpse into Kampot's past.
Local Riverside Life
Riverside
Observe the daily rhythm of local life along the riverbanks, from fishing boats to bustling markets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverside Charm
Old Quarter Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Views
Find a riverside bar or restaurant for the best sunset views. Many offer happy hour specials!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The Old Quarter is best explored by walking to appreciate the details of the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
🛵 Scooter Rental
Rent a scooter for flexibility, but be mindful of traffic. ($8/day mentioned)
🤫 Quiet Accommodation
If seeking peace, carefully choose your accommodation; some riverside spots can be noisy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Views
Find a riverside bar or restaurant for the best sunset views. Many offer happy hour specials!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The Old Quarter is best explored by walking to appreciate the details of the architecture. :athletic_shoe:
🛵 Scooter Rental
Rent a scooter for flexibility, but be mindful of traffic. ($8/day mentioned)
🤫 Quiet Accommodation
If seeking peace, carefully choose your accommodation; some riverside spots can be noisy.
💧 River Dip
Take an early morning dip in the river for a refreshing start to your day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kampot's riverside and old quarter offer a charming blend of colonial history and relaxed river life, with stunning sunsets being a major draw. While many praise the friendly staff and enjoyable river activities, some guests have encountered issues with noise disturbances from other patrons and inconsistent service quality. The value for money can also be a point of contention for some.
"It might be better to consider staying at a different boutique if you're looking for a quiet place. Although this place is described as boutique, it felt more like a fish market due to the noise. The management seems unable to enforce rules, as other guests were blasting music until 4 AM, making it impossible to relax. At a rate of around $150 per night, it's worth reconsidering your options. We came here to relax, talk, and enjoy the night view—not to be disturbed by loud music from other guests. AC is not working well too."
mouy. horng
"We stayed 4 nights and enjoyed our stay to the fullest. Staff and the owners are lovely and helped us out with everything needed. That includes booking transport, a really good scooter (8$) and daily menu updates via WhatsApp. The room was nice and an early morning jump into the river tops it up."
Philipp Rengers
"Lacks small fridge, lacks kettle, and bathroom has funny smell. Made reservation a week early for 6 people yet staff provides us with only a room for two beds for 2...
Expected to be placed in the room on the main road with good view of the river yet they put us in some place on other obscured road with bad view
Price is decent at $40 per night but is not comparable with other guest houses and hotels for the quality of the room and services"
Portheng Rath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kampot is accessible by bus or taxi from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Once in Kampot town, the Old Quarter and Riverside are easily walkable or reachable by a short tuk-tuk ride. Many accommodations are located directly on the riverside.
Yes, tuk-tuks are readily available for short distances. For exploring further afield or for more independence, renting a scooter is a popular option, costing around $8 per day.
The Old Quarter is best explored on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the charming colonial architecture and discover hidden gems at your own pace. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
While not as common as for other attractions, some guesthouses and local operators may offer boat tours or guided walks along the riverside, especially during sunset. Inquire at your accommodation.
Depending on your accommodation's exact location, it might be a bit of a walk from the bus station to the main riverside area. A short tuk-tuk ride is usually recommended to save time and energy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to wander through the Old Quarter or along the public riverside areas. You only pay for accommodation, food, drinks, or activities you choose.
The riverside is accessible 24/7. However, the best times to visit are during daylight hours for sightseeing and during sunset for its spectacular views. Many restaurants and bars operate into the evening.
Early mornings are generally the least crowded, offering a peaceful experience. Weekends and evenings can be busier, especially at popular sunset spots.
Yes, some accommodations and riverside spots allow you to bring your own beverages and food without extra charges, which can be a budget-friendly option.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most stunning light for photography and enjoying the views. Early mornings also provide a serene and beautiful atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sights include the old French colonial buildings, the central market, and the iconic clock tower. Simply wandering the streets reveals much of its charm.
You can enjoy sunset cruises, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relax at a riverside cafe. Some guesthouses offer direct river access for swimming.
Absolutely! The colonial architecture, vibrant river life, and especially the sunsets provide endless photographic opportunities.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the streets. :athletic_shoe:
Some riverside accommodations can experience noise from other guests or nearby establishments, especially late at night. If you're sensitive to noise, research your lodging carefully.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a mix of Khmer cuisine, fresh seafood, and international options. Many riverside restaurants offer stunning views alongside their meals.
Yes, local markets and smaller eateries offer affordable and delicious Khmer dishes. Bringing your own food and drinks can also save money.
Kampot is famous for its pepper, so look for dishes featuring Kampot pepper. Fresh seafood from the river is also a must-try.
Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, and many offer vegan dishes. Don't hesitate to ask for modifications.
Prices vary, but you can expect to pay around $5-10 for a meal at a mid-range riverside restaurant. Local eateries will be significantly cheaper.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the unique French colonial architecture, the vibrant market scenes, and the charming street life. Look for interesting textures and details.
The 'golden hour' before sunset provides warm, soft light perfect for landscapes and portraits. Early mornings offer a peaceful, atmospheric light for capturing the town waking up.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide scenes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the architecture, and a telephoto can be good for river scenes. Don't forget a polarizing filter for those vibrant sunsets! :iphone:
Capture the colorful fishing boats, the reflections on the water, and the iconic bridges. Sunset is a prime time for dramatic river shots.
The midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows. Heat and humidity can also be factors. Be prepared for potential noise or crowds at popular sunset spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kampot's Colonial Past
While some buildings are still in use as shops, residences, or guesthouses, others stand as silent reminders of a bygone era. The Kampot Museum, housed in a former French governor's residence, offers deeper insights into the region's history. Even if you don't visit the museum, simply walking the streets and imagining the bustling port life of the early 20th century is an experience in itself. Redditors often mention the charm of simply getting lost in these streets, discovering unique architectural details around every corner.
The Allure of the Kampot Riverside
Beyond the visual spectacle, the riverside offers numerous activities. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the water at your own pace, or opt for a more leisurely sunset cruise. Many establishments along the river serve food and drinks, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a cold beverage while watching the world go by. Be aware that some riverside spots can get quite lively in the evenings, with music and social gatherings. If you're seeking tranquility, it's advisable to choose your accommodation carefully or opt for a spot slightly away from the main entertainment hubs.
Navigating Kampot: Transport & Practicalities
A popular and cost-effective option for independent exploration is renting a scooter. This gives you the freedom to venture further afield, perhaps to the nearby pepper plantations or Bokor Mountain. Scooters can be rented for around $8 per day, and many guesthouses can assist with this. However, be prepared for local traffic conditions, which can be chaotic at times. If you're not comfortable riding a scooter, relying on tuk-tuks or joining organized tours are excellent alternatives.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit