Where to Run in Phnom Penh? Best Spots for a Jog in the Capital
Phnom Penh might not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of scenic runs, but for those who lace up their trainers and look past the tuk-tuks and tangled traffic, the Cambodian capital actually offers a few surprisingly solid options as featured in Great Runs.
So, whether you’re a visiting runner trying to stay in rhythm or a local looking to explore a new route, here’s our roundup of the best places to run in Phnom Penh.
1. Sisowath Riverside Promenade
If you’re after views and a breeze, the riverside is your go-to. The wide, paved promenade along Sisowath Quay runs parallel to the Tonlé Sap River and is one of the most popular areas for runners, especially early in the morning or just after sunset.
You’ll pass some of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks: the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and Wat Ounalom. Add in a loop through nearby parks like Wat Botum or the Independence Monument roundabout, and you’ve got an 8K ‘runseeing’ tour that hits all the highlights.
📝 Runner tip: Start early. Not just to beat the heat, but to soak in the calm morning vibes before the city fully wakes up.
2. Koh Pich (Diamond Island)
Just across a small bridge from the Riverside, Koh Pich has quickly become a favorite among local joggers. The roads here are wide, relatively quiet (especially on weekday mornings), and have fewer motorbikes to dodge. You’ll weave past strange architecture, wedding halls, and the Japanese-Cambodian Friendship Bridge, all while enjoying some river-facing routes.
It’s flat, peaceful, and just far enough from the city bustle to give you a proper escape.
📝 Runner tip: Head towards the water’s edge for a cooler run and some great skyline views.
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3. Olympic Stadium and Perimeter Loop
Home to one of the city’s only proper running tracks, the Olympic Stadium is a Phnom Penh classic. While the track can get busy with group exercise classes and football matches, many runners opt for the perimeter path—an easy loop that still keeps you in the rhythm of the city.
Early mornings see a mix of joggers, martial arts students, and folks doing traditional Khmer aerobics to pop music. It’s full of energy and uniquely Phnom Penh.
📝 Runner tip: Bring your own water—vendors are outside the stadium, but options are limited inside.
4. Chroy Changvar Peninsula
If you’re up for a longer run and want to get off the tourist track, consider crossing the Cambodia-Japan Friendship Bridge to Chroy Changvar. This growing residential area offers quiet, tree-lined streets and long stretches along the river that are perfect for distance training.
There’s less shade here, but also fewer vehicles and more space to really stretch your stride.
📝 Runner tip: Combine this with a short ferry ride for a loop that mixes terrain and scenery.
5. Areyksat and Silk Island Runs
Want a proper countryside escape without leaving Phnom Penh? Catch a ferry from the Riverside over to Areyksat or Silk Island. Both are ideal for runners looking to escape the heat radiating off city concrete. You’ll pass rice fields, small villages, and friendly locals on bicycles—all while clocking up peaceful, car-free kilometers.📝 Runner tip: Go in the early morning or late afternoon, and pack light—these spots are all about simplicity.
Final Thoughts
Running in Phnom Penh does come with challenges—humidity, occasional poor air quality, and chaotic traffic—but the rewards are real. It’s a city full of contrast, and hitting the streets on foot is one of the best ways to feel its rhythm.
And who knows? With a little planning and an early start, you might just discover a side of the city most people miss entirely.Got a favorite route we missed? Drop us a message and we’ll add it to the list. 🏃♂️🇰🇭
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
