How to get from Phnom Penh Airport (Techo International Airport) to the city centre

Why visit Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s buzzing capital, can feel a bit hectic at first glance. It doesn’t have the same easy-going charm as Siem Reap, but it has a character all of its own.

It’s definitely not a place you want to skip! In fact, it’s probably the most important place to learn about the country’s devastating genocide and traumatic history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields will open your eyes to what humanity is capable of.

Techo International Airport: Phnom Penh’s new gateway to Cambodia

The new Techo International Airport (KTI) in Kandal Province, about 20 km south of Phnom Penh, is now the main gateway to Cambodia’s capital. It was officially inaugurated in October 2025, replacing Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH).

After 63 years of service, the old airport finally reached its limit, with no space left to expand as passenger numbers kept growing.

That’s why the new Techo Airport was built. Filled with greenery and powered mostly by solar energy, it features a sweeping canopy roof and steel “trees” that let in plenty of natural light. Its goal is to be one of the world’s greenest airports.

The new airport sits a bit farther from the city than the old one, but getting into Phnom Penh is still fairly straightforward. In this guide, you’ll find all the ways to travel between Techo International Airport and Phnom Penh city centre.

There are 3 ways to travel the 20 kilometre (12 miles) distance from Phnom Penh Airport (Techo International Airport) to the city centre. You can choose between the airport shuttle, private transport and Tuk-Tuk. The journey takes 45 minutes - 2 hours and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by airport shuttle with tickets starting at 2,000 KHR ($0.40).

If you’re travelling on a budget, the Airport Express Bus is the cheapest way to get from Techo International Airport (KTI) to the city centre. A one-way ticket costs just 2,000 KHR ($0.40) and buses run daily from 05:30 to 23:30.

You can catch the bus just outside the arrivals hall — head left when you exit the terminal, and you’ll see the clearly marked bus stop where blue and white buses are parked.

The route includes four main stops:

• • Canadia Park (AEB01 / AEB02) – in front of Cambodia Railway Station
  • Royal University of Law and Economics (AEB03 / AEB04)
  • Samdech Techo Hun Sen Boulevard at Bred Bank (AEB05 / AEB06)
  • AEON Mean Chey, AEON Mall 3 (AEB07 / AEB08)

If you’re heading to the riverside area, hop off at Canadia Park, about 1 km from Phnom Penh Night Market. For Boeung Keng Kang (BKK), get off at the Royal University of Law and Economics, roughly 2 km away. From both stops, you may have to take a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride to get to your hotel.

The airport shuttle ride takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. It’s a great option if you’re saving on transport costs and want a local experience. But we don’t recommend taking the bus if you’re short on time.

You can check Techo Airport’s official website for more information.

Tuk-tuks or auto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Southeast Asia and an interesting way to start your journey into Phnom Penh.

If you’re travelling solo and want an affordable private transfer, hopping on a tuk-tuk is a great option. You’ll find them lined up outside the airport arrivals area.

You can also book one through ride-hailing apps like Grab, WowNow, Move, or PassApp — super convenient if you don’t want to haggle.

An airport tuk-tuk usually costs around $15 (60,000 KHR), but it’s often cheaper when booked through an app, with fares starting from about 30,000 KHR ($7.50).

Just a heads up: if you book via an app, there might not be a designated pickup area for tuk-tuks. You’ll need to communicate with your driver and agree on a meeting point.

WARNING: There have been many reports of luggage theft in Phnom Penh, even from a moving tuk-tuk. Make sure your luggage and smaller bags are secured and close to you at all times. Refrain from wearing expensive jewelry and don’t flash your gadgets throughout the ride. 

The most convenient way to travel from Techo International Airport (KTI) to Phnom Penh city centre is by private transfer. Aside from tuk-tuks, there are several private transport options available for this route: ride-hailing apps, pre-booked cars, and airport taxis.

The journey into the city usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Prices start from 63,000 KHR ($15.70).

Ride-Hailing Apps

The popular ride-hailing apps in Cambodia are Grab, WowNow, Move, and PassApp. A car ride costs about 63,000 KHR ($15.70). Note that you’ll need internet and a local SIM for most apps, except Grab, which works with international numbers too.

TIP: New users often get discounts! Check each app or their Facebook pages for promo codes before booking for a chance to save a few dollars.

Pre-booked Taxi

If you’re landing late at night, it’s worth pre-booking a taxi or private transfer via Klook or 12Go.Asia to make things easier when you arrive. Klook offers comfortable cars with enough space for your luggage. Rates for a 3-seater private car start from 101,000 KHR ($25).

You can also arrange a ride on 12Go.Asia, although they’re a bit more expensive, with fares starting from $39 (157,000 KHR) for a 4-seater and $54 (217,000 KHR) for a 7-seater.

Airport Taxi

You’ll find taxis waiting right outside the arrivals hall, perfect if you prefer to hop in and go. Airport taxi rates from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre start at $35 (141,000 KHR).

Maarten's insider tip

Always make sure that you are paying the right price by checking the rates displayed at the taxi stands. Take some small money with you because drivers often do not have small changes.