About the ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville
When traveling the 229 kilometer (142 mile) distance between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, you’re only 5 hours away from Cambodia’s seaside paradise. When booking your transfer, you have 3 options to choose from.
You can travel on a bus, which takes between 5 and 7 hours, depending on the operator and departure time you choose. There are Standard and Sleeper tickets available. Your second option is a minivan, which will take around 6 hours to arrive, and you can choose between shared and private transfers for your trip. Lastly, for smaller groups, there are private car transfers available.
If you don’t want to end up soaking wet, the best time to visit Sihanoukville is during the dry season, which lasts between October and early May. The high season in Sihanoukville is between November and February. During this time, you’ll be able to enjoy the bright sunshine and the refreshing sea breeze.
What to see when traveling from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville
What you’re able to see out of your window on your journey between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville depends on what time your ride leaves. If you’re taking a sleeper bus or timing your private transfer departure in the evening, there won’t be much to see. However, you’ll be able to catch up on sleep. You’ll arrive early in the morning, just in time to catch the sun rays gliding across the sea. As soon as you arrive at your accommodation, grab your swimsuit and head to the beach!
If you’re leaving Phnom Penh during the day, you’ll be able to see endless views of the Cambodian countryside during your trip. After 4 hours of your journey, you’ll be traveling next to Kirirom National Park, and green hills and trees will take over the scenery. When you arrive, it might be late for a swim, but you can still go on a walk around town and get to know the place where you’ll be staying.
Sihanoukville, with nearby paradise islands Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, is Cambodia’s most popular seaside destination. Start exploring the area with its pretty beaches, try out some watersports, or visit the beautiful islands.
If you like to hike, you’ll be happy to know that Ream National Park is right next to the town, waiting for you to explore it.
Compared to the busy Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville is a place where you come to relax, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and indulge in the tasty local food.
How to get from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville
Taking a bus
When traveling between Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, you can choose to travel on a bus. The journey usually lasts between 5 hours and 30 minutes and 6 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the operator you choose and your departure time. You can choose between a Standard Tourist Bus, and the Local Sleeping Bus. All buses are well equipped with A/C, chargers, and some might even have Wi-Fi connections. The sleeper bus has reclining seats. During your trip, the driver will make frequent stops on the way, and you’ll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and use the toilet.
Taking a minivan
The most common and affordable way to get from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is by taking a Standard Tourist Minivan. The tickets cost $9 and the ride will usually take around 6 hours.
The minivans are equipped with AC and comfortable seats. You can expect the minivan to make a few stops for the restroom along the way. If you’re traveling with a larger group, you can also choose one of the private minivans for your journey. There are options available for groups between 7 and 13 passengers.
Driving a private car
For travelers who are on a trip with family or a smaller group of friends and need privacy, the best option is to book a Private Car. There are options available for groups between 3 and 6 passengers, and you can choose between Standard and VIP transfer. All operators provide arranged pick up and drop off, and you’ll choose the departure time that fits your needs.