Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

About the ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's vibrant capital, is a medley of colorful sights and sounds. While in town, don't miss out on visiting its many temples, palaces, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Evenings call for a walk along its happening waterfront and an exploration of the city's fabulous street food scene.

The city of Siem Reap, on the other hand, is the starting point for tours and excursions into the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat. Spend a day (or week!) exploring the atmospheric ruins and learning more about this fascinating monument's history.

The distance from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is around 318 km (198 miles) and takes about five to six hours to cover. With well-known operators offering a multitude of travel options and departure times, the only problem you will face is choosing which operator to use.

Buses are the most economical option, but minivans are only a little more expensive than a bus ticket and are a popular choice to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. The majority of the buses offer nighttime departures while most minivans cover the route during the daytime. With options to travel throughout the day and night, you will have no problem finding something that fits your budget, timing, and other preferences. Apart from buses and minivans, you can also book a private taxi. Taxis are ideal for families and those who want more flexibility and privacy while traveling. 

 

What to see when traveling from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

As you travel to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh, you will get to experience the Cambodian countryside and get a peek into the day-to-day lives of locals. Lush green paddy fields (particularly beautiful after the rains) and farmers plowing their land are just some of the sights that will catch your attention along the way. If you are traveling by night bus, you can expect to reach Siem Reap well-rested and ready for a full day of sightseeing.

 

How to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Taking a bus 

With multiple bus operators offering close to 30 different day and nighttime departures and affordably priced tickets (prices start from $9), buses are a popular and budget-friendly way to travel to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh. 

The daytime buses come with comfortable seats, and some of them even offer snacks. Some of the operators have a toilet on board, but if they don’t, they make restroom stops along the way. 

You have a choice between reclining seats or a full bed when you travel on any of the night buses. Do note that while some of the buses come with single beds, you might have to share a double bed if the single beds are sold out. If you’d like some privacy,  it is recommended that you purchase two tickets to have the space all to yourself. It is also advisable to have a warm sweater or light jacket ready when the air conditioning is turned up, as things can get a little chilly!

 

Taking a minivan 

With over 40 departures every day and shorter travel times than buses, minivans are another popular way to travel the distance from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. For just a little more than what you would pay for a bus ticket, you get a comfortable ride through the idyllic Cambodian countryside.

For those traveling as part of a group, booking a private minivan is a budget-friendly and convenient option. They are perfect for groups of 8 to 13 passengers and offer hotel pick up and drop off. 

 

Hiring a private car/taxi 

A five to six-hour journey can be a bit much, especially if you are traveling with kids or unfortunately suffer from motion sickness. With convenient hotel pick up and drop off and a more flexible travel schedule, private taxis are perfect for families, those who like a more relaxed style of travel, need more space for extra luggage or just prefer the privacy of a car.

You can book a standard car if you are traveling by yourself or a small group (up to 3 passengers) or go for a spacious SUV that is good for up to six or seven passengers.