Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

How to Get From Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

5Options
30mFastest
$11From
MaartenWritten by Maarten

Bus · Shared Minivan · Train · Taxi · Flight

Phnom Penh is Cambodia's bustling capital, 186 kilometres (116 miles) to the northeast of Sihanoukville. It's home to the Royal Palace, the National Museum and a lively riverfront. Flying is by far the quickest option, taking 30 minutes. On the ground, the train is the cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh at $11 (46,000 KHR).

DISTANCE

Distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh are about 186 km (116 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 213 km by road. The quickest way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is by taking the flight, which takes around 30m.

~186 km
Straight-line distance
~213 km
Route distance
30m
Fastest
COMPARE

5 ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

There are five ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, minivan, train, private transport, and flight. The journey takes 30m–6h 35m and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at $11 (46,000 KHR).

Bus35 departuresDuration3h+Pricefrom$1663,000 KHR

Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Bus

The bus is an affordable way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Bus fares start from $16 (63,000 KHR) and the journey takes around 3-5h.

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

3hAirbusSeaterSihanoukville VirakbunthamPhnom Penh Virak Buntham08:1510:0018:30$1663,000 KHRTickets
3hVirak Buntham ExpressVIPSihanoukville VirakbunthamPhnom Penh Virak Buntham04:0005:0006:0007:0008:0008:15+9$1663,000 KHRTickets
3h30mAirbusStandardSihanoukville VirakbunthamPhnom Penh Virak Buntham09:0014:30$1663,000 KHRTickets
4h5mVirak Buntham ExpressLuxury HotelSihanoukville VirakbunthamPhnom Penh Virak Buntham18:4519:3020:0021:0021:3023:55$1663,000 KHRTickets
4hGo Ho TravelStandardSihanoukvillePhnom Penh Go Ho Travel08:3010:1512:4513:1517:15$1767,000 KHRTickets
Show all 11 companies
3h30mLarryta ExpressSleepingLarryta Express SihanoukvillePhnom Penh Larryta Express08:10$1768,000 KHRTickets
3h30mLarryta ExpressNightLarryta Express SihanoukvillePhnom Penh Larryta Express21:05$1768,000 KHRTickets
3hGiant IbisSleepingSihanoukville Giant Ibis TransportPhnom Penh Giant Ibis19:00$1769,000 KHRTickets
3hGiant IbisTouristSihanoukville Giant Ibis TransportPhnom Penh Giant Ibis13:30$1769,000 KHRTickets
3hIsland Express TourStandardSihanoukvillePhnom Penh08:0010:3011:3012:4514:3016:30+1$1873,000 KHRTickets
3hKoh Rong Island TransportStandardSihanouk Port Tours TerminalPhnom Penh10:1511:3014:3017:30$33134,000 KHRTickets
Available atBookaway

Stations

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Booking Tip

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.

Phnom Penh
Shared Minivan25 departuresDuration3h+Pricefrom$1458,000 KHR

Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Shared Minivan

A minivan ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around $14 (58,000 KHR). The minivan journey takes about 3-4h, 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.

Shared Minivan schedule from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

3h30mLarryta ExpressStandardLarryta Express SihanoukvillePhnom Penh Larryta Express07:0009:0010:0011:0012:0013:00+6$1458,000 KHRTickets
4hGo Ho TravelStandardSihanoukvillePhnom Penh08:3010:1512:4513:1517:15$1560,000 KHRTickets
3hSovan Rithy ExpressStandardSihanoukville Sovan Rithy Tickets AgentSovan Rithy Express Phnom Penh08:0010:3011:0011:3011:4512:45+4From $1767,000 KHRTickets
3hKoh Rong Island TransportStandardSihanouk Port Tours TerminalKoh Rong Island Transport Phnom Penh08:0010:3011:0011:4512:4513:45+2$1770,000 KHRTickets
Available atBookaway

Stations

Map of stations
Click to explore
From
To

Booking Tip

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.

Phnom Penh
Train1 departureDuration6h 35mPricefrom$1146,000 KHR

Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Train

A train ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around $11 (46,000 KHR). The journey takes about 6h 35m, 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 $5 (20,200 KHR) 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

6h36mCambodia Royal RailwayEconomy SeatSihanoukvillePhnom Penh14:00$1146,000 KHRTickets
Available atBookaway

Stations

Map of stations
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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 $4.90 (20,000 KHR), 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.

Phnom Penh
Taxi1 departureDuration3h+Pricefrom$81325,000 KHR

Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Taxi

A private transfer from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3h - 3h 30m, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at $81 (325,000 KHR) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $27 (108,000 KHR) each.

You can also hail a taxi on the road or arrange a transfer with your hotel. Hotels also quote starting prices of around $80 (325,000 KHR) 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

3h - 3h 30m$81 (325,000 KHR)
SIMA Car
Comfort Car 3 PAX
$80 (325,000 KHR)
$27 (108,000 KHR) per person
SIMA Car
Comfort Minivan 6 PAX
$150 (610,000 KHR)
$25 (102,000 KHR) per person
Golden Escape Cambodia
SUV Car 4 PAX
$83 (335,000 KHR)
$21 (84,000 KHR) per person
Golden Escape Cambodia
VIP Minivan 5 PAX
$130 (530,000 KHR)
$27 (106,000 KHR) per person
Golden Escape Cambodia
Standard Minivan 7 PAX
$145 (580,000 KHR)
$21 (83,000 KHR) per person
Golden Escape Cambodia
Luxury Minivan 5 PAX
$230 (940,000 KHR)
$46 (188,000 KHR) per person
Available atBookaway
Phnom Penh
FlightDuration30mPricefrom$65265,000 KHR

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 $65 (265,000 KHR). But they’ve all stopped operating this route.

These days, only Air Cambodia offers indirect flights from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, starting at around $220 (890,000 KHR). 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.

Sihanoukville
Phnom Penh

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STAY

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:
Budget

White Corner Hotel

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 (85,000 KHR) per night.

Check availability
Mid-Range

Stay Sweet Homestay

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 (122,000 KHR) per night.

Check availability
Treat Yourself

TAO Riverside Residence

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 (242,000 KHR) per night.

Check availability

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

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.

Rounding it up

That's the full picture for getting from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, roughly 186 kilometres (116 miles) apart. In all, there are 5 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $11 (46,000 KHR). The quickest trip takes 30m.

Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh?

The distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is 186 kilometres (116 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 30m.

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.

About the Author

Maarten
Maarten

Founder & Trip Planning Expert

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.

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