The distance between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is approximately 314 kilometers (196 miles) by road. Travelers can choose from four main transport options: direct flight, private car, bus or shared minivan, and Mekong River cruise. Each option suits a different travel style and budget.
Here is a quick summary to help you decide:
- Flight: ~45 minutes | $55–$125 per person | Best for: travelers short on time
- Private car: ~5–6 hours | $80–$140 per car | Best for: comfort and flexibility
- Bus/minivan: ~5–7 hours | $6–$18 per person | Best for: budget travelers
- Mekong River cruise: 4 nights | Varies | Best for: luxury and scenic experience
Direct Flight – A Saving Time Way
- Time: approximately 45 minutes
- Price: US$55 – US$125 per person (Price varies depending on booking time and airlines)
Traveling by airplane from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is the quickest and most convenient way. If you do not have many days to visit Cambodia, this option is highly recommended. There are 2 airlines available in Cambodia that have flights connecting Phnom Penh (PHN) and Siem Reap (SAI): AirAsia Cambodia and Cambodia Angkor Air. Among them, Cambodian Angkor Airlines is the most reviewed and provides the highest quality flights in Cambodia.
From Phnom Penh City Center to Phnom International Airport
From the city center, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk. The journey usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s advisable to leave with ample time, considering check-in and security procedures at the airport.
From Siem Reap International Airport to City Center
Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you can easily reach the city center by taking a taxi or a tuk-tuk. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are plenty of transportation options available at the airport, ensuring a smooth transition to your destination.
Things to keep in mind:
- Book in advance to secure lower fares, especially during peak season (November to February)
- Total door-to-door time including transfers can easily reach 3 hours, so factor this in when comparing to overland options
Private Car – Privacy and Flexible
- Time: around 5-6 hours
- Price: US$100 – US$140 per car per way
Hiring a private car with a driver is the most comfortable land-based option and the best choice for families, couples, or anyone wanting flexibility on the road. Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you off at your hotel in Siem Reap.
Key benefits:
- Freedom to stop along the way at temples, roadside villages, or scenic spots
- Safer and more comfortable than buses or minivans
- No set departure schedule, departs when you are ready
- Large SUVs available when booking online, comfortably accommodating 4 passengers with luggage
Booking tip: Reserve your car online through a reliable travel agency or tour operator. Avoid arranging last-minute deals at the roadside to ensure fixed pricing and verified vehicles.
Notable stop along the route: Kampong Thom, roughly halfway between the two cities, is home to the pre-Angkorian temple complex of Sambor Prei Kuk – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It makes for an excellent midway stop.
Bus or Shared Minivans – The Cheapest and Easiest to Afford
- Time: approximately 6-7 hours
- Price: US$6 – US$18 per person per way
Traveling by bus or minivan from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is the most economical option for budget-conscious travelers. Companies like Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, Cambodian Post VIP Van, and Larryta Express offer comfortable and well-maintained vehicles.
You can catch a bus or minivan from the central bus station in Phnom Penh or arrange for a pickup from your accommodation. In Siem Reap, the bus and minivan stations are conveniently located near the city center.
Keep in mind that these services may have multiple stops along the way, which can extend the travel time. It’s advisable to read reviews and choose a reputable company for a more comfortable journey.
Mekong River Cruise – Highly Recommended
- Time: 4 nights
- Price: Base on your budget
For travelers who want to experience Cambodia beyond the main cities, a Mekong River cruise between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is an unforgettable alternative. Rather than simply getting from A to B, this option turns the journey itself into the highlight of the trip.
The cruise passes through Cambodia’s rural heartland, offering a completely different perspective on the country compared to the urban experiences of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Typical highlights include:
- Kampong Chhnang’s floating villages
- The silk-weaving village of Koh Oknha Tey
- Wat Hanchey, a pre-Angkorian hilltop temple complex overlooking the Mekong
You can find these marvelous itineraries with Luxury Mekong River Cruise below:
Heritage Line (Jahan or Jayavarman): Besides top-notch comfort services onboard, the journey includes visits to Kampong Chhnang’s floating villages, the silk-weaving village of Koh Oknha Tey, and the pre-Angkorian temple complex of Wat Hanchey.
Aqua Mekong Cruise: Ideal for discerning travelers who seek modern luxury, exceptional cuisine, and an intimate atmosphere.
FAQs
Is there a train from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?
Currently, there is no train service between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The most popular modes of transportation are flights, private cars, buses, minivans, and boats.
What is the best way to go from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?
The best way to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap depends on your preferences and budget. If you’re short on time, a direct flight is the most convenient option. For privacy and flexibility, a private car is recommended. Bus or shared minivans are the cheapest and easiest to afford.
Can I get the boat or ferry from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?
While there used to be a boat service between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, it is no longer regularly available for tourists. The main reasons for this are:
- Unreliability: Water levels in Tonle Sap Lake can fluctuate significantly, making boat travel unpredictable.
- Time: The boat journey used to take 6-8 hours, which is much longer than other transport options.
- Safety concerns: Some of the boats were old and not well-maintained.
If you’re interested in a scenic water journey, some travel agencies might offer private boat tours, but these are typically expensive and not part of regular transportation services.
How many days in Siem Reap is enough?
To fully appreciate the wonders of Siem Reap, it’s recommended to spend at least 3-4 days. This allows ample time to explore the magnificent Angkor Wat temples, visit other important cultural sites, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Can you do a day trip from Phnom Penh to SiemReap?
While it’s technically possible to do a day trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, it’s not ideal due to the distance and the abundance of attractions in Siem Reap. The journey itself takes several hours, leaving limited time for exploration. It’s highly recommended to allocate a few days to fully experience and appreciate the beauty of Siem Reap.
How many days in Phnom Penh is enough?
To explore the main highlights and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Phnom Penh, it’s recommended to spend 2-3 days in the city. This allows you to visit iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, explore historical sites like the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and enjoy the local markets and cuisine.
Or beyond the ordinaries and for the off-the-beaten-track experiences in Phnom Penh, you can visit our blog: Top 10 unusual things to do in Phnom Penh
In general, there are many choices that are suitable for different types of travelers, who want to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and vice versa. Hopefully, this blog will be your handful tip when you are planning Cambodia tours.
For your reference, Indochina Voyages also has various fascinating Cambodia tours for you to choose from:
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Indochina Voyages stands out as one of the premier Southeast Asia Tour Companies, specializing in crafting personalized private packages for discerning travelers not just providing single transfer items from Cambodia to Phu Quoc. Whether you choose to explore our pre-designed tours, meticulously curated by our travel experts, or opt to customize your own itinerary, we guarantee to deliver the finest and most suitable options for every aspect of your journey, from accommodation to transportation.
Maybe you’ll find out your own Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour in our best-sellers:
- Southern Vietnam Discovery 6D-5N
- Splendors of Vietnam and Cambodia 17D-16N
- Classic Adventure Vietnam 12D-11N
Or else, please fill form and feel free to share with our travel expert your wish list or what you are really keen on doing along with your dream tour:
Minh Vu – Travel Specialist
