Cambodia Phnom Penh

How to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre. Our team of indpendent travel experts researched each route — breaking down each option by travel time, price, and comfort. Plus, we’ll share the best booking options to help you get the best deal.

Written by Maarten - Trip Planning ExpertReviewed by Abegail - Travel Writer

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Why visit Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, isn’t the most enticing city. It’s busy and chaotic and doesn’t boast the same charms as Siem Reap.

But it’s not somewhere you should 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.

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

What are the 5 ways to travel from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre?

There are 5 ways to travel the 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre. You can choose between the Airport Shuttle*, taxi, train*, City bus and Tuk-tuk. The journey takes 30 minutes - 1 hour and the quickest way is by airport shuttle*. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by city bus with tickets starting at $0.40 (2,000 KHR).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

City Bus

From $0.40 (2,000 KHR)

Train*

30m

From $2.50 (10,000 KHR)

Airport Shuttle*

30m - 1h

From $5 (20,000 KHR)

Tuk-tuk

30m - 1h

From $9 (36,000 KHR)

Taxi

30-45m

From $15.10 (60,000 KHR)

Book Tickets

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 to the city centre by City Bus

Duration: 1 hour

Costs: $0.40 (2,000 KHR)

Duration: 1 hour

Costs: $0.40 (2,000 KHR)

The air-conditioned city bus is the cheapest option when travelling to and from Phnom Penh Airport. Tickets cost only $0.40 (2,000 KHR) and travel time is about 1 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.

TOP TIP: One of our readers shared that if you’re carrying bulky pieces of luggage — and if you have a sim card and data connection — it might be better to take Grab from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre.

Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre by Train*

Duration: 30 minutes

Costs: $2.50 (10,000 KHR)

Duration: 30 minutes

Costs: $2.50 (10,000 KHR)

*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 to the city centre by Airport Shuttle*

Duration: 30-60 minutes

Costs: $5 (20,000 KHR)

Duration: 30-60 minutes

Costs: $5 (20,000 KHR)

*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 (20,000 KHR) 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 to the city centre by Tuk-tuk

Duration: 30-60m

Costs: $9 (36,000 KHR)

Duration: 30-60m

Costs: $9 (36,000 KHR)

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 (36,000 KHR). 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 (24,000 KHR) – $7 (28,000 KHR) 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 (24,000 KHR).

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 to the city centre by Taxi

Duration: 30-45m

Costs: $15.10 (60,000 KHR)

Duration: 30-45m

Costs: $15.10 (60,000 KHR)

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 $15.10 (60,000 KHR) 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 (32,000 KHR) – $10 (40,000 KHR), 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.

Airport taxis are reliable, but a bit cramped

If you don’t have the time to book your private transfer online, you can simply take an airport taxi from Phnom Penh Airport.

These taxis are actually quite convenient because they are already lined outside the arrival hall. You also don’t have to worry about any language barrier because a tenant is waiting there to translate your destination into Khmer for the driver.

The only disadvantage is that taxis in Cambodia are quite small, and might only be able to comfortably fit 2 people with luggage.

Airport taxis offer standard fares, which save travellers from having to negotiate to get a good deal. Fares range from $15.10 (60,000 KHR) – $18 (72,000 KHR), depending on where you’re headed in the city centre.

See below an overview of some rates:

Phnom Penh City Zone	Standard Taxi Fare
Wat Phnom, Riverside, Street 240	$12 (48,000 KHR)
Central Phnom Penh	$15 (60,000 KHR)
Across the Tonle Sap River	$18 (72,000 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.

Check Private Transfers with Klook

Taxi options from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre

Comfort

Comfort Car 3 PAX

Price per person = $5 (20,000 KHR)

SIMA Car

$15.10 (60,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

Comfort

Comfort Car 3 PAX

Price per person = $5 (20,000 KHR)

SIMA Car

$15.10 (60,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Car 4 PAX

Price per person = $5.30 (21,000 KHR)

Cambodia Private Car Service

$21 (84,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

Standard

Standard Car 4 PAX

Price per person = $5.30 (21,000 KHR)

Cambodia Private Car Service

$21 (84,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

Comfort

Comfort Minivan 6 PAX

Price per person = $7.60 (30,000 KHR)

SIMA Car

$45.50 (182,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

Comfort

Comfort Minivan 6 PAX

Price per person = $7.60 (30,000 KHR)

SIMA Car

$45.50 (182,000 KHR)

Get Your Tickets

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Best 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.

Check Available Rooms

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.

Check Available Rooms

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.

Check Available Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions about Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre

What is the distance from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre?

The distance from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre is 10 kilometers (6 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre?

The fastest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre is by airport shuttle* and takes 30 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre?

The cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre is by city bus with ticket costs starting from $0.40 (2,000 KHR).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre. 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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About the author(s)

Maarten

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.

Abegail

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.