How to get from Sihanoukville 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 Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh?
There are 5 ways to travel the 215 kilometre (134 miles) distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, taxi, train and flight. The journey takes 30 minutes to 6 hours 35 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at 46,000 KHR ($11.40).
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.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Bus fares start from 62,000 KHR ($15.50) and the journey takes around 3 to 5 hours.
You can choose from seven bus companies operating on this route.
Airbus and Giant Ibis receive the best reviews and have a good safety record. If you wish to travel by bus, we recommend that you book with them.
Bus schedule from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
This route is well paved. However, it’s also a busy road as it connects the capital with major docking ports in Sihanoukville. This means there are a lot of trucks, and drivers of heavy equipment vehicles are sometimes rushing to meet their tight schedules.
Also, note that each company uses its own office as the departure and arrival point, so make sure to check the exact location when booking.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Shared Minivan
A minivan ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around 58,000 KHR ($14.40). The minivan journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic.
Minivans are usually quicker than buses because they make fewer stops along the way.
There are four companies operating on this route: Larryta Express, Go Ho Travel, Sovan Rithy Express and Koh Rong Island Transport.
Minivan schedule from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
In Cambodia, transport companies often adjust the vehicle type based on how many people are travelling. You might book a minivan but end up in a bus, or the other way around, depending on demand.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Train
A train ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around 46,000 KHR ($11.40). The journey takes about 6 hours 35 minutes, which is almost twice as long as travelling by bus or minivan, and can sometimes take even longer depending on delays.
But the advantage of the train is that you can transport your bicycle or motorbike. Tickets for your vehicle start from 20,000 KHR ($5) and can be bought at the service desk at the station. You can read more information about this on the railway website.
Trains on this route run every day, but the type of train depends on when you travel. From Thursday to Sunday, Royal Railway operates KiHa model trains. These are refurbished Japanese trains with better seating, stronger air-conditioning and improved onboard facilities.
From Monday to Wednesday, the train uses older carriages. These are more basic and come with fewer amenities.
Train travel in Cambodia can be quite slow, and delays are common. If you’re not in a rush, though, the journey is worth it. You’ll pass through quiet countryside and small towns that most travellers never get to see.
The train takes the following route:
Sihanoukville Railway Station – Kampot Train Station – Kep Train Station – Takeo Train Station – Phnom Penh Railway Station
Train schedule from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
Departure and Arrival Stations
The train from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh departs from Sihanoukville Railway Station, about 6km from the main beach area. Fares for a tuk-tuk ride start from 20,000 KHR ($5), but you might find cheaper options if you book through PassApp.
The train arrives at Phnom Penh Railway Station in the town centre. Tuk-tuks are waiting outside the station, but you may find lower prices when you book through Grab or PassApp.
Before heading to your accommodation, take a few minutes to explore the station itself. It’s a beautifully restored historic building and a small attraction in its own right.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Taxi
A private transfer from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3 hours to 3 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 324,000 KHR ($81) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 108,000 KHR ($27) each.
You can also hail a taxi on the road or arrange a transfer with your hotel. Hotels also quote starting prices of around 322,000 KHR ($80) for a sedan. You may get cheaper or higher rates when getting a taxi on the street, but that depends on your negotiation skills.
If you don’t like to haggle, booking online through BookAway is the best option.
Private Transport options from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Flight
Air Cambodia (formerly Cambodia Angkor Air), Hanh Air and JC Airlines used to run direct flights from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh that took just 30 minutes and cost around 261,000 KHR ($65). But they’ve all stopped operating this route.
These days, only Air Cambodia offers indirect flights from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, starting at around 885,000 KHR ($220). Depending on the layover, the journey can take anywhere from 5 to 20 hours.
With buses and minivans covering the same journey in just 3 to 4 hours, flying really isn’t worth it anymore.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
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 Sihanoukville 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 Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
What is the distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh?
The distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is 215 kilometre (134 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh?
The fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is by flight and takes 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh?
The cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is by train with ticket costs starting from 46,000 KHR ($11.40).
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.
