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Are you planning to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap in 2024 but wondering how to get there? This guide is just what you need! Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is a popular route among expats and locals in Cambodia. There are several transportation options to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, including a bus, minivan, private car/taxi, and flight. Want to learn more about these options? Keep reading! In this guide, I’ll provide all the essential information about each transportation option so you can choose the one that suits your travel style and budget. Without any further ado, let’s begin!
Tuol Sleng Prison, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia. It is located in the southern part of the country, at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers.
Phnom Penh is a colorful city with many temples, palaces, museums, and markets. Some must-visit places in Phnom Penh include the Royal Palace, the National Museum, the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. At night, you can take a walk along the waterfront and taste some of the city’s street food.
Phnom Penh is also a great starting point for exploring other destinations in Cambodia, including Takeo (3.9 km), Kampot (131 km), Kampong Speu (54 km), Battambang (253 km), and Siem Reap (318 km).
After exploring Phnom Penh, many travelers head north to Siem Reap to see the famous Angkor Wat temples.
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia, near the Tonle Sap Lake. It is the capital of Siem Reap Province and a popular tourist hub. This former Khmer capital is easily accessible from the capital, Phnom Penh, and other cities.
You can reach Siem Reap via the Siem Reap International Airport, which is just 7 kilometers away from the city center. This airport is well-connected to other major Asian cities, including Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
The city’s main attraction is the Angkor Archaeological Park, which features more than 1,000 ancient temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple. Other popular attractions include the Angkor National Museum, Artisans Angkor, and the Phare Circus.
The temples, night markets, and bustling street life make Siem Reap a must-visit stop on your Cambodia itinerary.
→ Also read: 10 Sustainable Travel Tips for Visiting Cambodia
The best time to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is sunny and dry, making it the perfect time to visit the temples and ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. This is also the peak tourist season, so, as a conscious traveler, know that you can expect more crowds and higher prices for travel and accommodations.
If you prefer less crowded and cheaper options, consider traveling during the off-peak season from May to October. However, this is also the rainy season, and you may experience heavy rainfall and flooding. So, make sure to plan your travel accordingly and be prepared for any weather-related disruptions.
The distance between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is about 318 km (198 miles). Travel time between the two destinations varies depending on your preferred transportation method. The best way to travel between these two destinations is by bus, minivan, taxi, or plane.
If you are looking for a quick and convenient option, taking a flight would be the best choice. The flight takes around 45 minutes from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Once you reach Siem Reap, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the city center.
If you prefer to take a bus, several companies operate between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The journey takes 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Another option is to take a taxi or a private car. This is a bit expensive, but it allows you to stop along the way and enjoy the Cambodian countryside. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
Pick the option that suits your schedule, budget, and travel style! I’ll break them all down in the next sections.
Here are the 4 best ways to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap:
Estimated Duration: 6-7 hours
Estimated Cost: Starts from $8
The most popular and economical way to travel between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is by bus. It is the popular choice among tourists who like to slow travel and soak in local life. The journey takes 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
A one-way ticket costs around $8-20, depending on the type of bus and company you choose. Several bus companies run daily trips on this route, including day and nighttime bus options. If you want to save on the accommodation costs and time, you can take the night buses. You’ll see beautiful landscapes, small villages, and rice fields along the way.
Most buses have air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard amenities like WiFi and power outlets. Some buses also stop halfway for a restroom break and to buy snacks or drinks.
Once you arrive in Siem Reap, the bus will drop you off at the bus station located in the city center. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to your accommodation.
Some bus companies offer free hotel pick-up and drop-off, so make sure to check with your bus company if they offer this perk.
Here are some popular bus types to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.
These buses are the most basic and affordable option. They may or may not have air conditioning and typically make several stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers. Ticket prices start from $8.
For a more comfortable experience, you can choose a VIP bus, which offers more legroom and reclining seats. These luxury buses have onboard amenities like WiFi and power outlets. However, these buses are usually more expensive, starting at around $16.
These buses are best for nighttime traveling. They have sleeping berths and reclining seats that can be converted into beds. They also usually have air conditioning and curtains for privacy. These buses stop halfway between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, where you can grab a quick bite.
Many bus companies offer services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Each company has its own schedule, prices, and amenities, so be sure to research and decide wisely.
Here are some popular and reputable options!
Giant Ibis is a popular choice among tourists because of its comfortable buses. They offer Universe Luxury buses with electrical outlets for charging your devices and free WiFi.
If you stay in one of the company’s partner hotels, you can order a free pick-up service. In Siem Reap, the buses drop off passengers at the Giant Ibis Transport bus terminal, conveniently located in the city center.
Virak Buntham Express is a reputable company that offers multiple daily trips between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The company runs two sleeper buses, the Hotel Bus and the Luxury Bus. The buses are comfortable and equipped with beds, air conditioning, and WiFi. You’ll also get pillows and blankets during your journey.
Mey Hong Bus is a popular and reputable bus company operating from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. They run three trips daily on this route, two during the day (8:30 and 13:30) and one at night (23:00). Their buses include the Tourist Bus and Sleeper Bus.
AirBus is a popular choice for traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. They run multiple trips daily, both during the day and at night. The buses are full-size, comfortable, and accommodate 37 to 41 passengers. The staff is friendly, and you’ll get snacks and tea/coffee during your journey.
Once you’ve chosen a bus company, you can book your ticket online through 12Go or directly through the bus company offices. Choose the departure time and date that fits your schedule. Most buses depart from Phnom Penh as early as 8:30 a.m., with several departures throughout the day.
Be sure to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak season!
Travel Tip: Roads in Cambodia can be bumpy, so if you get motion-sick, bring medication, water, and snacks.
If you’re looking for an affordable and quick option to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, you can take a minibus/van. Mini-buses and vans are faster than large-size buses and provide a comfortable journey through the Cambodian countryside.
They cover this route only during the day. The journey takes around 5 to 5.5 hours. They are a bit more expensive than regular buses with tickets starting from $12.
If you’re traveling with a group, taking a private minibus or van is a smart and budget-friendly choice. Mini-buses and vans, with standard and VIP classes, can carry 8 to 15 passengers. They even pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation. You can book your ticket online through 12GO or in person at the bus stations.
Standard Vans: These vans/mini-buses can accommodate up to 15 passengers. They may have limited space for your legs. These vans are mostly crowded and have limited luggage space. If you’re a solo traveler, it might be perfect for you.
VIP Vans: These vans/mini-buses usually can accommodate up to 8-10 passengers. The VIP vans have more legroom, are comfortable, and have wider seats. They also have amenities like WiFi, snacks, and drinks.
Several popular companies offer minibus and van services for this route, such as Cambodia Post VIP Van, Ebooking Express, and more. They provide different classes of vans, from standard to VIP. You can book the one according to the level of comfort and luxury you want.
Sarah Transport is a reputable van service from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. They offer two daily trips on this route. Their vans are small and clean. If you’re traveling with a family or a group, you can book the entire van for a comfortable journey.
Ebooking Express is a popular bus company that goes from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. They operate buses, mini-buses, and vans on this route. You can choose the service that best suits you.
Van Type: VIP Van, VIP Minibus
Ticket Costs: Start from $11
Cambolink 21 Express is a popular and reputable company for tourists traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. They run both VIP mini-buses and vans with multiple daily trips. They make stops along the route for toilet breaks and lunch breaks.
This popular and reputable company operates VIP vans from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Cambodia Post VIP Van runs two daily trips, one in the early morning at 7:30 and one at 2:00 p.m. They have amazing pick-up and drop-off locations right in the city center of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The vans are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning and seat belts.
Make sure to check the reviews of each company so you can decide which van service meets your expectations!
If you’re looking for a more luxurious and comfortable way to travel, you can hire a private car or taxi to take you from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. If you’re traveling with kids or are prone to motion sickness, a private car/taxi is the best choice.
This option is more expensive, with prices starting at around $90, but it offers more comfort and flexibility. With a private car, you can choose your own departure time and make stops along the way to take photos or stretch your legs.
If you’re a solo traveler or a small group, you can book a standard car (SUV 3 passengers) or upgrade to a spacious SUV, which can accommodate up to six or seven passengers.
If you need more space, you can even choose a larger SUV that can accommodate up to six or seven passengers. You can book tickets online through 12Go, or your hotel can help you arrange them. Booking online allows you to pay in advance and avoid last-minute price changes.
On the day of your departure, your driver will pick you up from your hotel or pick-up location in Phnom Penh. Make sure to be ready on time and to have your luggage packed and ready!
Different companies offer private car services from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Here are some of them.
Angkor Guide Adventure is a popular company that offers taxi rides with online booking. They have different types of vehicles for taxis: SUV 3 pax, SUV 6 pax, and Van 10 pax. You can pick the one that fits your group size and comfort levels.
SIMA Car is a reputable taxi company that provides services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. They have a good safety record and knowledgeable drivers. They run different taxi sizes to accommodate all travelers, like the SUV 4 pax, the Minivan 7 pax, and the Premium Van 5 pax. Choose the vehicle that suits you the best!
Glassflower is a popular company that has been providing services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap for a long time. They offer luxurious vehicles on this route, such as the Comfort Car 3 pax and the Van 9 pax.
Now that you have learned about each company choose one and book your transfer online through 12Go.
If you’re short on time, you can consider taking a domestic flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. It is the fastest and most convenient option but not the most eco-friendly, unfortunately. The flight takes around 45 minutes. During the flight, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Cambodian landscape, including the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap Lake.
Cambodia Angkor Air is Cambodia’s national flag carrier and offers direct flights between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The airline has a good safety record and offers onboard amenities like free snacks and drinks. Their tickets start from $138.
Flights depart from Phnom Penh International Airport and land at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.
Don’t forget to consider the time it takes to go to and from the airport, and also think about possible delays or cancellations.
Here’s how you can get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by plane.
Phnom Penh International Airport is located about 10 km from the city center. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to get to the airport. The journey takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. You need to get to the airport at least 1-2 hours before departure.
The flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes around 45 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities.
You can enjoy onboard amenities like free snacks and drinks, and some airlines also offer in-flight entertainment.
Once you arrive at Siem Reap International Airport, you can take a taxi or a remork (a Cambodian tuk-tuk, a carriage attached to a motorbike) to the city center or your hotel. Remork is a cheaper option, costing around $8. The journey takes around 20 minutes. A taxi costs around $10.
Click the below button to check the flight schedules and book your tickets online through 12Go.
If you’re traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap during the wet season (November to March), you can take a boat trip across Tonle Sap Lake. The journey can take 8-9 hours. You can book your tickets online through Viator. The tour offers hotel-pick service, lunch, snacks, and drinks on board.
If the water level isn’t ideal for river cruising, the ferry might take more than 8 hours. Along the way, you’ll see the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the lake, as well as local fishermen and their boats. If you’re on a tight schedule, this might not be the best option for you.
Once you are in Siem Reap, you can easily get around. The city offers various options for travelers. Bicycles are the cheapest way to get around Siem Reap. You can rent them for around $3 per day.
If you prefer motor transport, you can rent a motorbike taxi, a tuk-tuk, or a taxi. Motorbike taxis are the cheapest option and cost less than $1 for short distances or $8 per day to explore the temples.
Tuk-tuks are a convenient and authentic way to get around, and they charge $15 per day. Taxis are the most comfortable option, as they have air conditioning, but they are also the most expensive, with prices ranging from $25 to $30 per day.
You can also use ride-hailing services like Grab or PassApp. They are reliable and safe, and the prices are usually fixed, so you do not have to worry about bargaining. But, they might not be available in all parts of the city, especially in remote areas. So, make sure to check before booking.
Here are some popular and sustainable things to do in Siem Reap!
It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Siem Reap, and for good reason. Angkor Wat is a huge religious monument in Cambodia that was built in the 12th century and it displays Hindu and Buddhist architecture. The complex is 400 acres and has over 1000 temples to explore.
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is in the morning for the sunrise. I recommend visiting the park with a guided tour. They can show you the best temples and tell you about the history of the Khmer civilization. If you prefer to visit independently, you can hire a tuk-tuk driver, an e-bike, or a bicycle, but it requires more effort and planning on your part.
Make sure to follow the rules and regulations to preserve these historical sites for future generations.
Apopo Visitor Center is a special place in Siem Reap where you can see how they train Gambian pouched rats to find landmines. It is a great place to visit with kids.
The center employs a team of highly skilled rat trainers who train African giant pouched rats to detect landmines by using their keen sense of smell. The rats are trained to scratch the ground above a landmine, signaling to their handlers that they have detected a mine.
The center is committed to raising awareness about the dangers of landmines and the importance of tuberculosis detection and treatment. The center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
HAVEN is a local community restaurant in Siem Reap that was opened by a Swiss couple on Chocolate Street. It is a training restaurant and social enterprise, giving new life opportunities to vulnerable young adults.
They learn important work and life skills while serving tasty, honest food. The goal is to give these young people a chance to become strong and independent by preparing them for jobs and helping them grow personally.
The restaurant serves a varied menu, including many vegetarian and vegan options. Their must-try dishes include blueberry pancakes and local Khmer noodle dishes. You can also enjoy lunch and dinner at HAVEN. Don’t forget to try their fresh juices!
Kulen Elephant Forest, located near Kulen Mountain, is a must-visit place for nature lovers and conscious travelers. This protected forest is located about 1 hour from Siem Reap. Here, you’ll meet and see retired elephants living in their natural habitat.
These elephants used to give rides to visitors at the Angkor temples for 22 years. But now, they are free to roam around in their natural home, showing us how the world is changing. By visiting this forest, you can help support the elephants and their conservation.
Don’t miss the chance to meet Chi Mean, Chi Tone, Savath, and others. It is a heartwarming and educational adventure for everyone!
If you are looking for a unique shopping experience that supports local artists and craftsmen, consider visiting the Made in Cambodia Market! If you’re tired of big markets where you have to bargain hard, this is the place for you! This market makes sure both buyers and sellers leave with smiles on their faces. Here, you’ll find all kinds of crafts and souvenirs made by talented Cambodians.
The market is located near Shinta Mani Angkor, so it is easy to find. It is open from noon until 10 pm every day. On Fridays through Sundays at 6 pm, you can watch traditional Khmer dance or listen to acoustic music shows.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Siem Reap. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.
From eco-lodges to sustainable hotels, Siem Reap is home to a number of accommodation options. The Old Market, Pub Street, Riverside and Old French Quarter are the popular areas to stay in Siem Reap.
If you’re looking for an eco-conscious, peaceful stay in Siem Reap, Anjali is the perfect choice. It is located just 10 minutes away from Siem Reap city center and the Angkor Wat temples. It has 29 rooms, each with a balcony or terrace and pool access. Mekhala, the hotel’s restaurant, serves delicious Asian cuisine using fresh, seasonal ingredients. You must try their Tofu Avocado Salad, Vegetarian Green Curry, and their dessert, Pineapple and Banana Crumble. After a hot day of visiting temples, you can also relax at the Mekhala Lounge & Terrace, enjoying music and cocktails. Anjali offers more than just a place to stay.
If you prefer a luxury stay and don’t mind spending a lot, you can enjoy celebrity-style luxury at Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas. The hotel is in a great location to visit local places like Angkor Wat. It is the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Treat yourself at their on-site Khmer Tonics Spa. The rooms are stylish and modern, like pool villas.
When it comes to food, Kroya by Chef Chanrith serves modern Khmer cuisine, while Baitong offers all-day dining with healthy breakfasts and tasty sandwiches. If you’re interested in learning how to cook Khmer food, Kroya by Chef Chanrith offers cooking classes so you can discover the secrets of Cambodian cuisine. The hotel offers pick-up and drop-off perks from the airport and can also arrange temple tours for you. What more could you ask?
If you’re looking for a fantastic stay in Siem Reap, Treeline Urban Resort is the perfect choice! The hotel is located near Riverside and is pe
rfect for exploring Angkor temples. Their rooms feature organic and minimalist designs. The hotel has four different dining options with menus that focus on fresh ingredients and sustainability, including plant-based options. SEED serves nutritious breakfasts, while CANOPY Bar offers snacks and cocktails. You can also try Brown Coffee and ROMIET for more dining choices.
After a day of exploring Siem Reap, pamper yourself at the SURI SPA. Treeline Urban Resort provides a relaxing retreat with a touch of Cambodian charm.
The distance between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is approximately 320 km (198 miles).
The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Generally, it takes between 5 to 7 hours by road and around 45 minutes by flight.
The ticket cost varies depending on the way and the class you choose! The cost of a one-way bus ticket is typically around $8 to $20 USD, while flight tickets may cost between $90 to $150 USD.
Currently, there is no direct train service from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. But you can take a train from Phnom Penh to Pursat. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Siem Reap.
I recommend you stay at least 3-4 days in Siem Reap to fully explore the vast Angkor temple complex and other attractions in the area. However, you can plan your trip to Siem Reap according to your time schedules and how early you arrive.
Traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is a direct and popular route with different transportation options.
You can travel by bus, minibus/van, private car, or plane. No matter how you choose to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, each option has its own pros and cons, so consider your budget, schedule, and comfort level before making a decision. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak tourist season.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page.
Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!
ENJOY!
Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!
On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!
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