Things to Do in Kampot: Nestled midway between Phnom Penh and Cambodia’s southern coast, Kampot stands out as the ultimate destination for riverside relaxation. Utilize this extensive list of activities in Kampot to design your perfect getaway.
I’ve visited Kampot countless times. During my time in Phnom Penh, it was my go-to destination for long weekends. It remains a top choice whenever I return to Cambodia, alongside Kampong Cham. Kampot is renowned for its cleanliness, greenery, and charming French architecture. The city center is situated along a slow-moving river, setting a relaxed tone for life here.
However, Kampot isn’t just about lounging and enjoying Kampot cider in a bungalow. The city offers a wealth of activities to keep you engaged. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, art, or indulging in one of Cambodia’s premier foodie destinations, Kampot has something to offer.
Welcome to Kampot
Looking for accommodation? Refer to my detailed Kampot accommodation guide for options that suit all budgets.
Kampot is centered around the Praek Tuek Chhu river, a vital part of town life. Compared to other major waterways like the Mekong or Tonle Sap, it’s relatively clean and safe for swimming (though the water quality improves as you move away from town).
A broad, flower-adorned promenade stretches along the river’s eastern bank, offering scenic views of Bokor National Park and surrounding Kampot’s selection of riverside bars, hotels, and boutiques. Venture a few streets away from the riverfront to discover Kampot’s core area, featuring delightful shop houses, colonial villas, and spacious boulevards.
Kampot, adorned with beautiful facades and green corners, is best explored on foot or by bicycle. However, if you’re staying at one of the popular jungle resorts north of town, consider renting a scooter or hiring a tuk tuk.
This guide not only highlights the top things to do in Kampot but also provides practical information to ensure a flawless trip.
Planning Your Trip to Kampot
Before you set off, here are some essential details for planning your visit to Kampot.
Best Time to Visit Kampot
The peak tourist season in Kampot is from November to January. This period offers pleasant temperatures but can be crowded and pricier. The hottest months, March to May, are best avoided. The monsoon season, occurring mid-year, brings heavy rainfall and afternoon storms. The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder season, from September to October, when the rice fields are lush, temperatures are cooler, and the crowds are thinner.
Where to Stay in Kampot
- Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel offers both mixed and single-sex dorms, outdoor common areas, and a variety of tours and activities.
- Mid-Range: MAKK Hotel is conveniently located in town with breezy balcony rooms for breakfast and complimentary bicycles for guests.
- Boutique: Hotel Old Cinema, housed in a renovated heritage movie house, stands out as one of Cambodia’s coolest boutique hotels. Read my full review here.
- Luxury: Kampot River Residence features well-appointed bungalows with traditional Khmer decor.
- Riverside Bungalows: Samon Village offers family-friendly homestay-style accommodation across the river with water-view bungalows and a large garden.
For more inspiration, check out my comprehensive Kampot hotel guide or browse all accommodation options on Agoda.
How to Get to Kampot
- From Phnom Penh: Giant Ibis bus (4 hrs; $10; online tickets here), Kampot Express van (3 hrs; $8; online tickets here), or train (5 hrs; $7; Friday-Sunday only; tickets here).
- From Sihanoukville: Champa Tourist bus (2 hrs; $6; online tickets here).
- From Siem Reap: Giant Ibis bus via Phnom Penh (15 hrs; $20; online tickets here).
Do You Need a Visa for Cambodia?
Most nationalities require a tourist visa for a 30-day stay in Cambodia. Check the iVisa website to determine if you need a visa and to apply and pay for an expedited visa online.
28 Wonderful Things to Do in Kampot
Here are my top recommendations for things to do in Kampot, organized by genre and location.
Things to Do in Kampot Town
- Visit the Durian Roundabout: Kampot’s iconic landmark features a large durian sculpture at its center. This quirky roundabout commemorates Kampot’s history as a durian production hub in the 1940s. It’s a useful reference point if you’re arriving by bus or van.
- Explore Old Market Street: This main street divides Kampot into two parts, with the famous Durian Roundabout to the north and the Saltworkers Roundabout to the south. The street is home to popular cafes and gift shops amidst a backdrop of Chinese shophouses and French architecture.
- Check Out the Kampot Fish Market: Originally an open-air market built in 1934, the Kampot Fish Market has been restored to its Art Deco glory. Now an upscale restaurant, it offers locally caught seafood and stunning river views.
- Swim in an Old Movie Theatre: The old 7 Makara Cinema, now Hotel Old Cinema, has been transformed into a boutique hotel with a pool. Non-guests can enjoy a swim for a minimum spend of $6.
- Cross the Old French Bridge: Built in the 1920s, Kampot’s old French Bridge connects the riverside with Thvi. Despite damage from the Khmer Rouge, it has been partially restored and remains a picturesque spot.
- Admire Kampot’s Colonial Architecture: The city boasts impressive colonial buildings, including the National Bank of Cambodia and the Kampot Provincial Museum, which have been beautifully restored.
- Learn Local History at the Kampot Provincial Museum: Located in the Old Governor’s Mansion, this museum offers insights into Kampot’s colonial past, complete with restored architectural details.
- Walk Around the Lotus Pond: This serene lake, located behind the Museum, is a peaceful spot for an evening stroll, even when the lotuses are not in bloom.
- Photograph the Chinese School: Jue Ming Chinese School is a standout building in Kampot, reflecting the city’s Chinese heritage with its striking pink facade and ornate roof.
- Discover Contemporary Art at Kampot Art Gallery: Previously located in Kampot, the gallery has moved to Phnom Penh and is now known as PiPetPi Gallery 282. It features local Khmer artists and offers a range of artworks and gifts.
- Find Books at Bookish Bazaar: This shop near Old Market offers a variety of second-hand books at great prices. It’s also a place where you can swap or sell books.
- Shop for Ethical Fashion at Dorsu: Dorsu’s relaxed, ethical fashion embodies Kampot’s laid-back vibe. Although their Kampot store has closed, you can shop online or visit their Phnom Penh branch.
- Rummage Through Khmer Collectables at Kampothead: Located in the Old Royal Cinema, Kampothead sells vintage and antique items, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s past.
Outdoor Activities & Adventurous Things to Do in Kampot
- Kayak the ‘Green Cathedral’: Paddle through the lush waters of Praek Tuek Chhu river’s Green Cathedral, a serene area 5km north of Kampot city. Rentals are available from local lodges.
- Motorbike in Bokor National Park: Situated 37km west of Kampot, this park offers a scenic motorbike adventure through its mist-shrouded landscapes and abandoned French structures.
- Explore Abandoned Buildings: Bokor National Park features a variety of old, abandoned buildings, including hotels and churches, shrouded in mist for a ghostly experience.
- Join a Kampot Pepper Tour: Kampot pepper is renowned globally for its flavor. Visit farms like La Plantation and Khmer-French Farmlink to see peppercorns being grown and learn about their history.
- Visit the Kampot Salt Fields: Kampot is also known for its sea salt production. Explore the salt pans by bicycle and watch the salt workers during the harvest season.
- Cycle Through Rice Fields: Kampot’s rice fields, surrounded by palm trees, are particularly picturesque during the wet season or harvest time.
- Explore Kampot’s Cave Temples: Visit the Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, a 7th-century Hindu shrine set in a limestone cave on Kampot’s outskirts.
- Get High with Climbodia: For an adventurous experience, Climbodia offers guided caving and climbing tours, suitable for all skill levels. Book in advance and bring sturdy shoes.
