Discover Kampot, a small piece of France on the Cambodian coast

If you ever visit Cambodia, definitely do not skip the Kampot province and its eponymous capital during your travels through this amazing country. However, don't be too surprised if it feels like you have traveled back in time and space to 19th century France. That is exactly the impression Kampot can give you.

Promenades like on the Champs-Élysées boulevard Champs-Élysées

Thanks to its slightly faded but still stunning colonial architecture, complemented by green parks, chaotically run electricity, and its location on the gently rocking waves of the Praek Tuek Chhu river, you will feel like you are walking through the old streets of Paris, where time has stood still.

The river is precisely the centerpiece of the town, which is lined on its left bank with beautiful promenades offering views of the nearby Bokor National Park. Before you head into its untamed flora, dive deeper into the town’s streets and explore the town itself. Ideally on foot, or by bike.

Gastronomy and art lovers will find their place in Kampot

You should definitely visit Old Market Street, which is the main street of the town and where you will find many charming cafes and souvenir shops. The fish market built in 1934, renovated in the Art Deco style, also has its charm. Today it houses a luxury restaurant serving seafood. However, you can also just stop by for an aperitif and admire the beauty of the interiors.

The old cinema was given a second chance as well, transformed into the Old Cinema Hotel. It offers the atmosphere of Kampot’s golden era from the last century, as well as a swimming pool where guests can swim and properly relax before their next Cambodian adventure.

If you are interested in the history of the place you are traveling through, be sure to visit the local museum, whose exhibitions are dedicated to history. Besides the exhibits, you will also find a renovated museum building that originally served as the residence of the provincial governor.

Art lovers will find their place at PiPetPi Gallery, which exhibits works by local artists. On the ground floor, you will find a shop offering various paper products and upcycled jewelry.

Many collectible items also await you at a shop called Kampothead, which will transport you through a variety of beautiful items back in time to the first half of the last century, when Kampot was literally a shining river pearl. Part of this charm has been preserved to this day, but it requires some time to see the former splendor with your own eyes.

But it is definitely worth it!