The heart of Cambodia lies in its charming laneways, where every corner tells a story. From the lively mix of bars, restaurants, and shops on Phnom Penh’s Langka Lane and the relaxed nightlife vibe of Bassac Lane to the energetic dining and entertainment scene of Siem Reap’s Pub Street and the laid-back retro cafes and craft bars of Kampot Lane, these vibrant paths offer a rich variety of experiences. Near the Royal Palace, Palace Lane is emerging as a famous foodie and cultural hub with flavors and activities.
As property prices become more realistic in Cambodia, there’s a great chance to transform existing buildings in these laneways creatively. Old structures can be redeveloped as exciting shared living spaces, trendy cafes, or affordable hotels. This renovation boosts entrepreneurial opportunities and adds to the urban charm.
At IPS Cambodia (អាភីអេសខេមបូឌា), we understand these trends and are thrilled to guide you through the evolving real estate scene. Our expert real estate agents in Cambodia will help you invest in properties ready for a makeover or find the perfect spot for your next business dream.
Ready to explore your creative workspace areas? Let’s dive into the details of these laneways to know more!
#1 – Pub Street in Siem Reap
Pub Street isn’t a traditional side street. But, this busy pedestrian avenue is undoubtedly the vibrant heart of ខេត្តសៀមរាប. The street is trendy and crowded for holidays such as Khmer New Year, International New Year, and other local cultural holidays.
It’s the go-to spot for visiting the amazing Angkor Wat and other Siem Reap temples. Pub Street is also perfect for relaxing, enjoying drinks, and tasting delicious local and international foods.
Pub Street has restaurants and bars, so you’ll find plenty of tasty culinary options. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a sports bar showing the big game, or a relaxed lounge serving fancy cocktails made with local ingredients, the nightlife here keeps things lively and fun.
Renting a space on Pub Street can range from $500 to $2,000 per month, depending on the size and exact location. Hotel options are also available for all the budgets – from cheap $20 per night places to luxury $500+ resorts. With the constant inflow of tourists, investing in a property along this lively avenue is definitely a lucrative opportunity.
#2 – Bassac Lane – Known for Phnom Penh’s Vibrant Nightlife
Bassac Lane in the BKK area of រាជធានីភ្នំពេញ has emerged as the undisputed go-to destination for nightlife in the Cambodian capital. What started as a slight stretch of carefully curated bars and dining spots a decade ago has transformed into a trendy network of laneways buzzing with energy and excitement.
At the heart of ទន្លេបាសាក់ lies Street 308. It is where dozens of cocktail bars, eateries, clubs, and hidden gems have emerged. These new entries have led to a new life into renovated Khmer shophouses and colonial-era buildings. With its central location near landmarks like the Independence Monument and Wat Botum Park, Bassac Lane has become a vibrant area. It attracts locals, expats, and tourists alike.
The options are seemingly endless, with many bars, restaurants, music venues, and boutique shops to explore. While long-standing classics like Mama Wong’s and Red Bar remain crowd favorites, the ever-evolving landscape always ensures something new and exciting to discover.
Bassac Lane is more than just a nightlife hotspot; it’s a thriving cultural hub hosting exhibitions, pop-up markets, and lively street festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Space rent in this sought-after location can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per month, depending on size and proximity to the location. With its constant buzz and foot traffic, investing in a property or business along Bassac Lane presents a profitable opportunity to tap into the city’s thriving nightlife scene.
#3 – Langka Lane – Phnom Penh’s Trendy Gastro Enclave
Located in the heart of រាជធានីភ្នំពេញ, Langka Lane is a laneway that has grown into a popular food and drink destination. Situated on St 51 and the corner of St 288, near the iconic Wat Langka and Independence Monument, this lively area offers a diverse mix of new and trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique businesses.
- For those looking for craft beers or cocktails, Langka Lane delivers with places like Embargo, featuring an impressive selection of regional and local brews and an upstairs space perfect for board games and retro gaming.
- The locally-owned SAK Pub Craft Beer & Bites is another hit spot for beer lovers.
The food options are equally tempting, with a melting pot of flavors represented.
- Katansashi, a fusion Japanese restaurant, is a firm favorite, while a handful of other Japanese and Asian eateries cater to varied tastes.
- Garage Sale’s uniquely decorated interior, smash burgers, and retro arcade games provide a fun dining experience.
- Long-standing burger joint Burgershack and the well-regarded French restaurant Le Langka further enhance the area’s culinary appeal.
- The recent addition of Boma, serving Mediterranean cuisine, adds another layer of variety.
Rent for an area in this up-and-coming food and drink hub can range from $800 to $3,000 per month, depending on size and location within the lane. With its proximity to several hotels and the constant flow of visitors, investing in a property or business along Langka Lane presents an opportunity to tap into Phnom Penh’s growing culinary scene.
#4 – Kampot Lane – A Laidback Riverside Retreat
Kampot, a popular getaway destination from bustling Phnom Penh, has added a new relaxing spot to its thriving foodie scene Kampot Lane. This small laneway, also known as the “Little Alley Of Fun,” is not so far from the river and the downtown Old Market. The lane allows visitors and tourists to chill in the riverside town.
The lane has charming outlets, including a cosy cafe, a craft bar, and even a tattoo parlor. It provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. Guests can enjoy the laid-back vibe that Kampot is renowned for.
Renting a space along Kampot Lane can range from $300 to $1,000 per month, depending on the size and location within the lane. With its prime location and growing popularity among visitors, investing in the property in Kampot Lane can yield maximum returns in the future.
#5 – Palace Lane – Phnom Penh’s Newest Culinary and Social Hub
Palace Lane is a concept laneway launched in Phnom Penh after the pandemic subsided. Since its development, it has quickly become a hot spot for locals and tourists. It is situated between St.240 and St.244 (also known as 240 and a half), near the iconic Royal Palace and riverside area. The lane offers the best local and international food, drink, and music in a safe environment.
The range of outlets along the laneway is impressive, with-
- Fernando’s Piri Piri Chicken
- Craft
- Planta
- Pizza Factory
- Cambodia Bagels
All these provide diverse culinary delights. Filled with popular establishments like Box Office, Villa Grange, and The Vine, Palace Lane offers plenty of dining, drinking, and social options within a compact area.
- The success of Cambodia Bagels and Pizza Factory (now branched out as Burger Factory) has led to the opening of additional delivery outlets in the city.
- A small investment group has revitalised what was once a popular hangout with venues like Bar Sito and Artillery. They rented the properties. In these spaces, they added new outlets alongside the French-Khmer cocktail bar Bong Bong Bong. The group also introduced street art and a regular lineup of music events.
Palace Lane has become a regular destination for those seeking nightlife experience. Renting a space along this buzzing laneway can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per month.
Conclusion
After exploring the details of Cambodian laneways, it is clear that all the alleys offer a wide range of investment opportunities. If you’re planning a foreign investment, then there’s no better place than Cambodia.
IPS Cambodia is always on your side to assist you with the best properties. Our expert real estate agents at IPS Cambodia have served for 5+ years. We have hundreds of properties listed in:
All these listings cater to a wide range of people. You can find the best option with us based on budgets, amenities, and locality preferences.
Check out the list of properties in Cambodia, or connect with our real estate agents to know more.