How to Get From Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
Heading from Angkor Wat country back to the capital? The Siem Reap to Phnom Penh route offers the same options as the reverse journey — flights, buses, taxis, and seasonal boats. Here's your complete guide.
Our Recommendation
Take the morning Giant Ibis bus for comfort and value, or fly if you're short on time. The new airport (SAI) is 40 km from town, so allow extra time for airport transfers.
🚀 All Transport Options
✈️ Domestic Flight
Duration
45 minutes
Cost
$60–$120
Frequency
Multiple daily flights
Same airlines and prices as the reverse route. Note that SAI airport is 40 km from central Siem Reap — allow 40–50 minutes for the transfer.
Insider Tips
- •Airport shuttle from city costs $7–10
- •Tuk-tuk to airport takes 50+ minutes
- •Book early for best prices
- •Check-in opens 2 hours before departure
🚌 Express Bus
Duration
5.5–6.5 hours
Cost
$10–$18
Frequency
Multiple departures (6am–12:30pm)
Giant Ibis departs from their office near the Old Market area. Mekong Express and Capitol also operate this route. All buses make one rest stop.
Insider Tips
- •7:45am Giant Ibis is the most popular departure
- •Arrive 30 min early for boarding
- •Buses drop off at central Phnom Penh stations
- •Evening buses are available but less recommended
🚐 Private Transfer / Taxi
Duration
5–6 hours
Cost
$70–$120
Frequency
On demand
Door-to-door service. Ask your hotel to arrange or use PassApp/Grab. Great value when splitting between 3–4 travelers.
Insider Tips
- •Can stop at Kompong Thom ruins en route
- •Ask driver about Sambor Prei Kuk detour (+1hr)
- •Price is per vehicle, not per person
- •Confirm AC works before departing
📊 Quick Comparison
| Option | Duration | Cost | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Domestic Flight | 45 minutes | $60–$120 | premium |
| 🚌 Express Bus | 5.5–6.5 hours | $10–$18 | comfortable |
| 🚐 Private Transfer / Taxi | 5–6 hours | $70–$120 | comfortable |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by bus?
About 5.5–6.5 hours including one rest stop. The road (NR6) is fully paved and in good condition.
Are night buses available?
Some operators run evening departures, but day buses are recommended for safety and comfort.
How do I get to the new airport from Siem Reap?
The new SAI airport is 40 km from town. Shuttles cost $7–10 and taxis around $12–15. Allow 50 minutes for the transfer.
🔗 Related Routes
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