How to Get From Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville

The bus is an affordable way to get from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. It is also the most popular. Bus fares start from 62,000 KHR ($16), and the journey takes about 2h 45m - 4h 30m.

You can choose from six bus companies operating on this route.

We recommend travelling with Giant Ibis and Airbus. They usually get good reviews from travellers for being comfortable and reliable.

A minivan ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville costs around 58,000 KHR ($15). The minivan journey takes about 3h - 3h 30m, depending on traffic.

Minivans usually get you there faster than buses because they make fewer stops. The downside is that space can feel a bit cramped, with less legroom and limited room for bags.

There are four companies operating on this route: Larryta Express, Virak Buntham Express, Sovan Rithy Express and Koh Rong Island Transport.

A train ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville costs around 46,000 KHR ($11), and the journey takes about 6h 35m. Since buses and minivans complete the same journey in around 3 to 4 hours, many locals do not usually choose to take the train for this route.

That said, the train does have its advantages. It is one of the few transport options that allows you to bring a bicycle or motorbike on board. Tickets for vehicles start from 20,000 KHR ($5.00) and can be purchased at the service desk at the railway station.

The journey is also scenic, passing through rural areas and small towns along the way.

From Thursday to Sunday, Cambodia Royal Railway runs KiHa model trains, which are refurbished Japanese trains and are noticeably more comfortable than the regular service.

On other days, trains use older carriages, which are more basic and offer fewer comfort features.

Departure Station

Phnom Penh Railway Station is located right in the city centre, so it’s easy to reach. You can get there by hailing a tuk-tuk or taxi on the street, but using Grab or PassApp often gets you a better rate.

The station itself is a restored historic building and is frequently visited, even by people not taking the train. It has also been renovated in partnership with a mobile phone company, which is why you will find a Cellcard counter inside. Here, you can buy a SIM card, get internet access, or even purchase a phone.

A private transfer from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at 323,000 KHR ($81) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 108,000 KHR ($27) each.

There used to be direct flights from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville that took just 35 minutes and cost around 321,000 KHR ($80), but those are no longer running.

Now, Air Cambodia is the only airline flying from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, and all its flights are indirect. Prices start at around 819,000 KHR ($205), but depending on the layover, the journey can take anywhere from 5 to 17 hours.

With buses and minivans covering the same route in just 3 to 4 hours, flying really isn’t worth it anymore.