If you’re interested in architecture, Phnom Penh’s offerings are more impressive than you may have previously imagined. Indeed, the temples of Angkor Wat are not the only incredible structures worth seeking out on a trip to Cambodia.
Our guide will pick you up at your hotel around 08:00 – 08:30 and we depart for a city tour of a different kind.
Tourism and investment are booming in Phnom Penh, and the Cambodian capital’s rich architectural heritage is a big draw. Our tours focus on buildings erected after Cambodia's independence in 1953, a style described as 'New Khmer Architecture', while setting these within the historical context of Phnom Penh. Meant to be a brief historical introduction to the city, the tour includes a selection of well-known buildings as well as some less obvious examples, i.e. of religious architecture.
Enjoy lunch at Van’s Restaurant – the 150 year old building that was constructed in French colonial style for the purpose of housing the Indochina Bank. It became the property of the Cambodian Van family in 1960, and served as the family residence for many years. After a tour of the villa, enjoy an amazing lunch of French delicacies before taking a cycle ride through the French Quarter.
Traveling by cyclo (a Cambodian pedal-powered rickshaw) is a special way of experiencing the streets and buildings of the city. These will take us to Phnom Penh Port, where they will get on a boat trip along the Tonlé Sap Lake in the spectacular evening light. This offers you a view of the river banks, filled with lively examples of Phnom Penh’s architectural periods. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink and the transquil atmosphere on the lake, there is no better way to admire the city’s architectural variety.
The tour ends around 18:00 at your hotel.
