Phnom Penh Introduces Weekend Walking Street To Enhance Tourism And Leisure
Phnom Penh has officially launched its highly anticipated Weekend Walking Street, transforming a significant section of the riverside into a pedestrian-only zone aimed at boosting tourism and enhancing the city’s nightlife. The initiative, developed by the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration, opened on February 1, 2025.
A New Attraction For Tourists And Locals
Spanning 57 hectares, the Walking Street will stretch from the Cambodia Post Office to the Royal Palace, providing a vibrant space for leisure and social activities. This initiative aligns with the city’s broader strategy to create more engaging public spaces for both residents and visitors.
The pedestrian street will operate every weekend , restricting vehicle access from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Fridays to Sundays . The designated zones will feature a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, enhancing Phnom Penh’s appeal as a dynamic urban destination.
Three Distinct Zones
The Walking Street is divided into three key sections:
Zone 1: Covering 3.3 hectares, this area encompasses the historic district around the Cambodia Post Office, offering a scenic and culturally rich atmosphere.
Zone 2: Spanning 20.7 hectares, this section has been designated as a ‘pub street’ to elevate Phnom Penh’s nightlife experience.
Zone 3: The largest section, covering 34 hectares, extends further along the riverside, providing ample space for recreation and entertainment.
Enhancing The Visitor Experience
To accommodate the expected increase in foot traffic, the municipal administration has planned key infrastructure improvements, including parking areas and public restrooms. The Walking Street will also feature cultural performances such as traditional Khmer pinpeat music, painting spaces, and circus acts, creating an immersive cultural experience for visitors.
This initiative, originally conceptualized in 2019, was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With its revival, Phnom Penh aims to establish a public leisure space that aligns with international urban development trends while catering to the growing influx of tourists.
As the Walking Street officially launches, it is expected to contribute significantly to the city’s appeal, fostering a lively and engaging environment for both locals and international visitors.
Sustainable Urban Development
The Weekend Walking Street isn’t just about entertainment – it’s a step toward a more sustainable Phnom Penh. Designed with eco-friendly features like recycling stations, green spaces, and a focus on environmentally conscious businesses, it’s a pedestrian-friendly haven that reduces the environmental impact of vehicle traffic.
This project is a cornerstone of Phnom Penh’s broader urban development strategy, which is all about modernizing infrastructure, improving public spaces, and enhancing the city’s overall livability. As it continues to evolve, the Walking Street is setting the stage for similar projects across the city, positioning Phnom Penh as a dynamic, forward-thinking urban center.
Looking Ahead: Economic Growth & Cultural Flourishing
The Weekend Walking Street is already making waves – expected to boost the local economy by attracting both domestic and international visitors. The recent influx of foot traffic is benefiting local vendors, restaurants, bars, and cafés, fueling growth in the food and beverage sector.
But it doesn’t stop there: the added cultural performances, art displays, and local craftsmanship are enriching the creative economy, offering exciting new opportunities for local artists and businesses. As the Walking Street continues to grow, it will play a major role in shaping Phnom Penh’s cultural and economic future.
For more insights into the best neighborhoods in Phnom Penh for expats , check out our guide to the city’s top locations .
