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How to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
There are 4 easy ways to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. A bus will get you to the capital in 4 to 5.5 hours; a taxi will take you there faster in about 4 hours; a scenic train ride will take 7 hours; while a plane will take you in as fast as 30 minutes.
4 ways to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
Booking a bus from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is a cheap and convenient option. The journey takes between 4 and 5.5 hours, depending on the ongoing road construction works.
Taking the taxi is a good option when travelling in a group. Taxi fares usually start at $45 and the ride takes a total of 4 hours to reach Phnom Penh.
If you’re not on a tight schedule and want to enjoy the views in the countryside, you can opt for the train. The journey will take a bit longer than the bus or taxi and includes two short stops along the way.
The fastest but also most expensive option is to fly from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. The flight takes a little under an hour.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Bus
Option 1: Bus from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
Most travellers prefer to take the bus to cross the journey from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Giant Ibis receives the best reviews and has a good safety record. If you wish to travel by bus, we recommend 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.
Option 2: Van from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
Vans are another alternative to taking the bus.
Van schedules from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
If luck is on your side and there is no road congestion, you should be able to reach the city in just 4 hours.
Mekong Express
- Departure at Mekong Express Sihanoukville branch, near the Central Market
- Arrival at the Mekong Express station across Orussey Market and Hotel in Phnom Penh
Bayon VIP
- Departure at the Bayon VIP Office in Sihanoukville
- Arrival at the Bayon VIP Office in Phnom Penh
Larryta Express
- Departure from Larryta Express Office (Kamakor St.)
- Arrival at Larryta Transport Terminal along Sisowath Quay in the city centre
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Taxi
There are three ways you can book a taxi. You can hail one on the road, arrange a transfer with your hotel or book a private taxi online.
Use your negotiation skills if you are hailing a taxi and make sure to specify your drop-off point. Fares usually range from $45-60.
You can book your taxi online starting at $60 by clicking the button below.
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Train
The train ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh takes a bit longer but provides another local experience. There are two types of trains – the yellow and the blue train. Don’t worry about which one you take, the only difference between the two is that they have different seating arrangements.
The advantage of the train is that you can also transport your bicycle or motorbike. You can buy the additional tickets for $5 at the service desk at the railway station.
The train on this route only runs on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. You can book your tickets online through the button provided.
For complete information on the schedules, visit their official railway website.
Train schedules from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
| Day | Departure Time (Sihanoukville) | Arrival Time (Phnom Penh) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 07:00 | 14:00 |
| Saturday | 07:00 | 14:00 |
| Sunday | 07:00 16:00 | 14:00 23:00 |
The train makes a few 10-minute stops in Kampot and Takeo and takes the following route:
Sihanoukville Railway Station – Kampot Train Station – Takeo Train Station – Phnom Penh Railway Station
Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh by Flight
The flight takes around 30min and prices start at $65 for a one-way ticket. If you prefer cheaper flights, it’ll take a minimum of 20 hours to reach Phnom Penh.
Flights on this route are operated by Cambodia Angkor Air, Hanh Air and JC Airlines. Check the schedules and book your flights through the button provided below.
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:
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.
Phnom Penh Travel Guides
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The Ultimate Phnom Penh Travel Guide
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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.
