Travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
The route between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is often unavoidable when visiting Cambodia. The capital and the city of temples are two major destinations, offering a wide range of activities related to the country’s authenticity and Southeast Asian region. There are several ways to travel between these two cities, and here’s a guide to help you save time!
You can choose to travel by land, air, or even water, depending on your budget! Buses that travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap take approximately 6.5 hours to reach the city of temples, while mini-vans, the miniature versions of large buses with about fifteen seats, take about 5 hours. Boats docked along the Riverside navigate for 8 hours to bring you to your destination. Finally, the fastest option is, of course, by plane. The flight lasts only 40 minutes, allowing you to make the most of your time in these two major Khmer cities.
Price overview
Dozens of bus and mini-van companies operate in Phnom Penh. In certain neighborhoods, you can see these large vehicles at every street corner, such as near the Night Market by the Tonlé Sap River. Several of these companies are reputable, and our local agency has specifically selected one, which, though the most expensive, remains reasonable and is known to be the safest, most welcoming, and most functional. This company is Giant Ibis. The ticket to Siem Reap costs 15 dollars, whereas other companies charge around 11 dollars.
Their buses, which can carry about thirty passengers, offer Wi-Fi access, charging ports, and a television. The seats are comfortable, and the air conditioning is not excessively strong, allowing passengers to control it personally. The travel team consists of a driver and two hostesses who adhere to hospitality standards, are friendly, approachable for requests, and speak both English and Khmer. They even offer a small pastry at the start of this morning journey. The entire trip takes about 6.5 hours, with the driver usually making two stops: one for a drink and bathroom break, and a second for lunch.
The waterway route is much more direct. You simply head to the pier located across from the Night Market by the Tonlé Sap River in the Riverside neighborhood and buy a ticket at the counter. The price is 30 dollars for the trip to Siem Reap, and the journey takes 8 hours. Be aware that boats do not operate on the Tonlé Sap River all year round. Water levels must be adequate, which, of course, makes sense. It is impossible to predict far in advance, but these services are generally available between November and January. This offers a unique experience that can be quite memorable.
Lastly, there’s air travel, which is the most serene way to get to Siem Reap. The flight only takes 40 minutes. However, make sure to arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport at least an hour and a half in advance, especially if you are carrying checked baggage. The ticket, when purchased a few weeks in advance, typically costs between 30 and 40 euros, depending on the flight comparison websites. If you book the day before, expect to pay around 50 euros for the ticket.