Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is the busiest and largest airport in Cambodia. This airport is a hub for Cambodia Airways, Cambodia Angkor Air, JC International Airlines and Lanmei Airlines
5 ways to get from Phnom Penh Airport
There are five ways to travel the distance of 10 km (6 miles) from Phnom Penh Airport: by airport shuttle* (30-60 minutes), taxi (30-60 minutes), train* (30 minutes), bus (1 hour) and phnom penh airport by tuk-tuk (30-60m). The journey takes between 30 minutes - 1h and the quickest way is by airport shuttle*. The lowest priced tickets start from €0.30 ($0.40) for the bus.Where to stay in Phnom Penh?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh at the bottom of this page.
Phnom Penh Airport by Bus
The air-conditioned city bus is the cheapest option when travelling to and from Phnom Penh Airport. Tickets cost only 1,500 KHR or $0.40 and travel time is about an hour to the city centre.
You can find the bus stop for Bus Line 3 outside the airport. Buses are available every 10-15 minutes from 05:00 to 20:30.
Bus Line 3 makes 20 stops along the way. It passes through Russian Boulevard and you can get off at Central Market in the city centre.
Note that only Cambodian riel is accepted when buying tickets and change is not given on the bus. It’s best to have the exact fare before boarding the bus.
Phnom Penh Airport by Train*
*COVID-19 UPDATE: The last time we checked (September 2023), the airport railway had been suspended since the pandemic. We will update the route once this option becomes available again.
Pre-pandemic, there used to be an airport railway operated by Royal Railway Cambodia. The airport train was one of the most convenient ways to travel between Phnom Penh city centre and the airport.
However, since 2020, the airport line from Phnom Penh city centre to Phnom Penh Airport has stopped operating because of low passenger numbers and suspended flights. The railway track has been covered and reverted back to a road.
The line could become operational again in the future, or it could be shut down and moved to a bigger road. For now, we suggest taking another option when travelling to and from the airport.
The airport train took passengers directly from the airport to Phnom Penh Railway Station. The train stations are located at the airport parking area and right in the city centre.
Trains were available every 30 minutes. It took only 30 minutes to get to the city because there were no stops along the way.
Phnom Penh Airport by Airport Shuttle*
*COVID-19 UPDATE: The last time we checked (September 2023), the KK Star Express bus was unavailable. We suggest taking the public bus, a taxi, or a tuk-tuk instead.
Another good and comfortable option before the pandemic was the shuttle bus. KK Star Express used to operate shuttles between Phnom Penh Airport and the city centre.
Fares were about $5 for a one-way journey. You can buy your shuttle bus ticket at the airport counter in the arrival hall, from hotels or from the driver while boarding the bus.
The shuttle bus at the airport was available at the driveway near the ticket counter. The bus had 7 stops along the way, with the last stop at Tokyo Inn in the centre of Phnom Penh.
The bus was available from 09:00-17:50 daily. During peak hours, the bus used to run every 30 minutes and every 60 minutes during non-peak hours.
Phnom Penh Airport by Phnom Penh Airport by Tuk-tuk
If you’re travelling alone, you can save some money by taking a tuk-tuk. Same as the taxis, you can find tuk-tuks lined outside Phnom Penh Airport’s arrival area.
Airport tuk-tuks charge a fixed rate of $9. For cheaper rates, you need to go outside the airport gates and hail one from there. These tuk-tuk drivers will take you for $6-$7 to the city centre, depending on your negotiation skills.
You can also book a tuk-tuk via hailing apps like Grab. Rates start from $6.
WARNING: There are many reports of pickpockets in Phnom Penh, so don’t put your luggage outside of the tuk-tuk! It’s best to keep your luggage close to you at all times.
Phnom Penh Airport by Taxi
The best way to travel from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre is by private transfer. You can keep your luggage safe and secure at all times and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel’s doorstep.
We recommend booking your ride beforehand via Klook, which offers comfortable cars and enough space for your luggage. Rates for a 3-seater private car start from $13 on Klook.
You can find cheaper rates when booking with taxi apps like Grab. From Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre, a Grab ride costs around $8-$10, though fares can still vary throughout the day.
Note that you’ll need a sim card and data connection to be able to book your Grab car.
Our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the largest city in Cambodia, split into a number of districts that each offer something different. Here’s a quick rundown of the best districts to stay in:
- Daun Penh is the city centre and historic area of Phnom Penh. It’s where you’ll find the Royal Palace, government buildings and the most colonial architecture. Here is the place to stay if you want to be close to the top things to do in the city.
- BBK1 boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It’s close to the city centre, without being as hectic. There are plenty of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hipsters cafes here.
- Riverside is, as the name suggests, along the river. You’ll wake up to river views and be close to plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and street food.
Check out our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh:
White Corner Hotel - Budget Friendly
As the name suggests, White Corner Hotel has a very white colour scheme both inside and out, giving it a clean and modern feel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, providing everything that you need.
If you stay here, you’ll be located in the BBK1 neighbourhood, a very fun place to be staying. It’s also within walking distance of the must-visit S-21 prison.
- Clean and modern
- Great location
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
- Bikes are available
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Stay Sweet Homestay - Mid Range
With only four rooms available in this intimate homestay, you’ll need to book Stay Sweet in advance if you want to guarantee yourself a room. The almost perfect rating is mainly down to the incredible owner, Panha, who provides a friendly welcome and the best recommendations.
Staying here you’ll also receive a discount at the local swimming pool and gym. The onsite restaurant is also a must-try, the food is delicious!
- Gets booked up
- Amazing owner
- Access to local swimming pool and gym
- Delicious onsite restaurant
Private rooms start from $30 per night.
TAO Riverside Residence - Treating Yourself
TAO Riverside Residence is located right on the river offering spectacular views. Most of the rooms have private balconies where you can relax after a long day of exploring and just watch the boats gliding along the river.
The rooms are mainly studio style with most rooms having their own kitchenette and seating areas. They’re beautifully designed and super modern, creating an environment you won’t want to leave. On top of that, the Wi-Fi is great!
- Amazing river views
- Private balconies
- Large and modern rooms
- Great Wi-Fi
Deluxe double studios start from $60 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phnom Penh Airport
What is the distance from Phnom Penh Airport?
The distance from Phnom Penh Airport is 10 km (6 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport?
The fastest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport is by airport shuttle* and takes 30-60 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport?
The cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport is by bus with ticket costs starting from €0.30 ($0.40).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Phnom Penh Airport. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
UPDATE September 2023.
Train and Airport Shuttle still unavailable. City Bus service available from the bus stand just outside the airport perimeter fence is available for a very short wait at 1,500 Riel per ride. But if carrying big luggage, better take GRAB.
Hi Lai! Thank you so much for your feedback. Comments like this are very important because they help us keep our website up-to-date. We hope you enjoyed Phnom Penh. Safe travels!
I am going the first time.
I can just order a grab taxi in the terminal to my hotel in the city centre?
Hi Calvin, yes you can book Grab at the airport to take you to your hotel. Grab typically offers cheaper rates than the taxis available at the airport. Enjoy your trip!
Thank you
Are Taxis safe and plentiful at midnight?
Hi Frankie, taxis from Phnom Penh Airport are available 24 hours. They have a good record of safety and quality service. But if you want to ensure your ride, you can also book a taxi online prior to your trip via Klook. They offer more spacious cars and their drivers receive excellent reviews. Safe travels!
Hi,
From airport to Mou Hotel at Street 125 by public bus where do I get down ? If I count the stops how many stops do I get down to my hotel?I have checked the bus stop is Monivong Road 214 Bus stop 36. Does the bus stop at every stop and I prefer to count the number of stops to get down to Road 214 bus stop 36. Thank you.do
Hello Doris,
I just checked the bus stops which are closest to your hotel. Unfortunately, the bus doesn’t stop at Monivong Rd 215. The closest bus stops to your hotel are Sydney Supermarket (also called Bayon Market) or the Central market. Both bus stops are about 20 minutes walking to your hotel, or 10-minute by tuk-tuk. Instead of counting the bus stops, I recommend to tell the driver where you want to get off as the bus might not make a stop at every bus station. Safe travels!
Hi,
Just looked at the price for a Grab to the airport from the citycenter, it’s 31.000 KHR so that is between $7 or $8.
Keep up the good work for this website, we’ve used it a lot!!
Thanks a lot for sharing this taxi fare Madelon! I just updated it in the article. Safe travels!
You didn’t mention Grab.
Hi Mike, thanks for letting us know that Grab works as well. If you have any indication of the fares that would be awesome!
hello maarten,
can u advise how far railway station from airport?
Hello Narissa, by train you can travel between the airport and railway station in just 30 minutes. And from the railway station, it’s only a 10min walk to the city center.
Hello Narissa, by train you can travel between the airport and railway station in just 30 minutes. And from the railway station it’s only a 10min walk to the city center.
Excellent advice, clear and comprehensive.
Thanks! Glad it was helpful!