Transportation in Cambodia: How to get around the city

Just like Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, the cities are not always pedestrian-friendly. In major urban areas, traffic can become a real headache as you navigate through the chaos of scooters, tuk-tuks, and other vehicles flooding the streets. To avoid minor inconveniences, here are some transportation options that will make your travels easier during your stay in Cambodia.

Traffic in Cambodia

As is well-known, getting around in Cambodia, especially for those not accustomed to it, is no easy feat. Between the noise of honking horns, the disregard for traffic laws, and the lack of safety regulations, it’s no wonder some people can feel “disoriented.” Indeed, priority rules don’t apply here—"it’s whoever forces their way first." The same goes for safety; don’t be surprised to see four people on the same scooter without helmets. Despite the high daily accident rate, locals don’t always have the same road safety reflexes.

Choosing the right mode of transportation for your stay in Cambodia

Don’t bother looking for trams or subways in Cambodia, as they do not exist. To get around, you'll need to use the widely available tuk-tuks and many other means of transportation.

Exploring the cities by bicycle

Riding a bicycle through Cambodia’s cities can be quite the challenge, as some areas are more traffic-congested than others. This is why you’ll find few cyclists in Phnom Penh, for example. The heat can also be a deterrent, depending on the time of year during your visit to Cambodia.

However, this mode of transport is very affordable. You can rent a city bike for less than €3 per day or a mountain bike for less than €5.

Getting around by tuk-tuks (larger) & rickshaws

Using tuk-tuks and other rickshaws is very common in Cambodia. They differ mainly in capacity; rickshaws can carry up to 3 people, while tuk-tuks can carry up to 5. You’ll have no trouble finding them, as they are present at every street corner. However, many drivers may not know how to read a GPS or speak English. It’s highly recommended to know your route, as you may need to guide the driver if they are unfamiliar with the road.

As for the cost of a tuk-tuk ride, it’s typically around €0.80 per kilometer, although prices can vary significantly. Some drivers take advantage of tourists' lack of knowledge about local pricing, inflating the fare. To avoid this kind of issue, PassApp seems to be a suitable solution for all rides in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Recently launched, this mobile app allows you to easily book a ride with prices shown in advance, as well as a map showing the route and duration of the trip.

Renting a scooter in Cambodia

For the more adventurous, renting a scooter offers more freedom and can be more economical than taking tuk-tuks if you need to travel frequently. Expect to pay around €7 per day for a rental, with the helmet included. No international driving permit is required to ride a scooter under 125cc, and the only document needed as a guarantee is your passport. However, you’ll need to be prepared for the local driving habits, such as sudden lane changes and weaving through traffic. Also, having a good sense of direction is necessary to navigate the city freely.

Taking a khmer taxi

You can also find traditional taxis, which will cost you about twice as much as a tuk-tuk. They offer more safety than two-wheeled transport, but travel time may be longer, as taxis can’t weave between vehicles like scooters do.

Using city buses

Cheaper than tuk-tuks, you can easily get around the city for just a few dozen cents. Bus stops are served daily from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM, which could be a good alternative to tuk-tuks and rickshaws. Additionally, you’ll benefit from greater safety without the need to negotiate the fare.

National buses

Significantly cheaper than flying for travel between cities in Cambodia, national buses are widely available. Prices vary depending on the type and condition of the vehicle, as well as the journey duration. Additionally, the departure time can influence the price. For example, a Phnom Penh-Siem Reap trip might cost around €5 for a 7-hour bus ride or €12 for a 5-hour minivan ride.

Departures typically take place early in the morning until early afternoon for daytime buses. In general, the travel time and punctuality are quite unpredictable. It’s not uncommon for a bus to fail to show up, so it’s best to book tickets at a physical counter rather than online to ensure you can contact the company in case of delays or other issues.

Night buses are particularly useful for long journeys, as they allow you to save on accommodation costs and gain an entire extra day for sightseeing during your stay in Cambodia.