How to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
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.
What are the 5 ways to travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?
There are 5 ways to travel the 320 kilometre (199 miles) distance from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, minivan, taxi, flight and ferry. The journey takes 2 hours 45 minutes to 8 hours and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 32,000 KHR ($7.90).
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.
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. Bus fares start from 32,000 KHR ($7.90), and the journey takes around 5 hours to 7 hours 45 minutes.
Taking the bus from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is a great option if you want to see more of Cambodia along the way. As you travel, you’ll pass rice fields, palm trees, small villages and roadside markets. It gives you a glimpse of everyday life beyond the main tourist areas.
You can choose from ten bus companies operating on this route. There are standard seated buses, sleeper buses and more premium options with extra legroom and better onboard facilities. If your budget allows, it’s worth upgrading for extra comfort since the travel time is quite long.
With frequent departures throughout the day, you can easily choose a time that fits your schedule. You’ll find the full bus timetable in the table below.
Bus schedules from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
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In Cambodia, transport companies often adjust the vehicle type based on how many people are travelling. You might book a bus but end up in a minivan, or the other way around, depending on demand.
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Minivan
A minivan ride from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh costs around 40,000 KHR ($10). The minivan journey takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.
There are seven companies operating on this route.
Minivans are usually faster than buses because they make fewer stops. That said, it’s still a fairly long journey, and minivans can feel cramped with limited legroom and luggage space. If comfort is your priority, you may prefer a premium bus.
Minivan schedule from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Ferry
The ferry is a good option if you’re not in a hurry and want to take in some countryside views along the Tonle Sap Lake. It’s a slower journey, but you’ll get a unique perspective of Cambodia’s countryside and floating communities along the way.
Ferries on this route usually operate during the wet season (June to November), when water levels are high enough. The journey takes around 8 hours, so if you’re on a tight schedule, flying may be a better choice.
You can book your tickets with Cambodia River Express, which runs ferry departures every Wednesday and Sunday at 08:00. A ticket costs 197,000 KHR ($49) per person.
Departure and Arrival Stations
In Siem Reap, the meeting point is outside the Cambodian Commercial Bank, right next to Pub Street in the city centre.
In Phnom Penh, the ferry arrives at the main pier along Sisowath Riverside Park.
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Taxi
A private transfer from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 5 hours to 5 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at 345,000 KHR ($86) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 115,000 KHR ($28.50) each.
Private Transport options from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Flight
Flying from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is the fastest way to travel. However, flights can be quite expensive if you don’t book in advance.
The total cost for this journey starts at around 407,000 KHR ($100).
Travel time takes about 2 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes, including the airport transfers. Even with the extra time spent at the airport, flying is still quicker than travelling by bus or minivan.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Siem Reap city centre to Siem Reap Airport
The new Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) is about 45 kilometres away from the city centre. Depending on traffic and your choice of transport, the trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
The cheapest option is the airport shuttle bus, with ticket fares starting from 32,000 KHR ($8). Buses leave from 7 Makara Street, around two kilometres from the main tourist area.
If you want to travel more comfortably and save time, a private transfer is a good choice. You can hail a taxi, use a ride-hailing app, or pre-book a car through services like BookAway. Prices usually range from 100,000 KHR ($25) to 181,000 KHR ($45).
There are also tuk-tuks to the airport, but they’re slower and not ideal in bad weather. You can read more about all the transport options on our Siem Reap airport page.
Step 2: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by Flight
Air Cambodia operates four daily flights from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, with fares starting from 373,000 KHR ($93).
If you book early or catch one of their seat sale promotions, you can sometimes find tickets for as low as 241,000 KHR ($60). I
The flight takes around 1h.
Step 3: Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre
Techo International Airport (KTI) is Cambodia’s new international hub, about 20 km south of Phnom Penh. It’s a bit farther than the old airport, so getting into the city takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your mode of transport.
There are 3 ways you can get from Techo Airport to the city centre: by bus (1.5-2 hours), by tuk-tuk (1 hour), and by taxi (45 minutes to 1 hour).
The cheapest way to reach the city centre is via the Airport Express Bus, which runs daily from 05:30 to 23:30. A ticket costs 2,000 KHR ($0.40) and the bus makes four main stops:
- Canadia Park
- Royal University of Law and Economics
- Samdech Techo Hun Sen Boulevard at Bred Bank
- AEON Mean Chey, AEON Mall 3
You can also ride a tuk-tuk if you’re after a more local way to get into the city. You can take one directly from the airport, but it’s usually cheaper to book through a ride-hailing app like Grab, PassApp, WowNow, or Move. Prices start from 30,000 KHR ($7.50).
For the most comfort, take a private transfer with rates from 63,000 KHR ($15.70). Also, here, you will find the best value by booking through ride-hailing apps. But you can also book one beforehand through Klook or 12Go.Asia.
Check out our full guide for Phnom Penh Airport for more details.
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.
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.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. 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!
Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
What is the distance from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?
The distance from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is 320 kilometre (199 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?
The fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is by flight and takes 2 hours 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?
The cheapest way to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is by bus with ticket costs starting from 32,000 KHR ($7.90).
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.
