Jared Dillingham at Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Travel Options in Cambodia

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Jared Dillingham at a temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Travelers in Cambodia often make the trip between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. It’s an easy trip, and you have several options:

  • Private Taxi
  • Bus
  • Plane

I’ll go through each option below. You can use the table of contents to bounce down to the section you’re most interested in!

Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh, is a growing destination with a newly-expanded airport. It’s a much bigger city, and has many more international flights each day.

Five Five sky bar at the Hyatt Regency in Phnom Penh

Siem Reap is a smaller city farther north in Cambodia. It tends to be a more popular destination for foreign tourists, because it’s home to the temples and archaeological sites around the Angkor Wat complex.

A temple near Siem Reap, Cambodia

As a result, you’ll find a range of accommodations, restaurants, tour operators, and transportation options to suit various budgets and preferences.

It’s worth noting when you’re planning your visit to Cambodia: tourist crowds vary greatly by season!

The dry season (November to February) attracts far more visitors. Still … tourists can be found traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap throughout the year.


Getting From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: The Basics

Let’s quickly go over the three options and the basic logistics of each:

Private Taxi: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

  • Distance: 320 kilometers / 200 miles
  • Cost: From $50 up (each way)
  • Time: 5.5 to 7 hours
  • Click to Book

Plane: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

  • Airline: Cambodia Angkor Air
  • Cost: As low as $75 (each way)
  • Time: 40 minute flight

Bus: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

  • Distance: 320 kilometers / 200 miles
  • Cost: $10 to $30
  • Time: 6 to 7+ hours

Private Driver from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

There are many private taxi options to get from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap! There is no shortage of drivers willing to bring you on this journey!

Here are a couple top-rated and verified options.

🚙 Click to Book: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Private Driver

🚙 Click to Book: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Private Taxi

Best time to visit Cambodia's temples

Flights from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

If you’re in a time crunch, you might consider taking a plane between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Your options are limited (and fairly expensive, I think) but the flights are convenient.

Airline Flying from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Cambodia’s own Angkor Air flies several times a day between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

The domestic gates at Phnom Penh’s airport see very little traffic, so you’ll breeze easily through security.

Chances are, you’ll be on an ATR-72, which is a twin-engine turbo prop. 

Siem Reap Airport: Angkor Air

It’s not the most comfortable, seating-wise, but it’s fine for such a quick flight. You’ll be in the air for around 40 minutes total. 

PRO TIP: The flights often leave early, so make sure to be at the gate 30 minutes before the scheduled departures. 

Siem Reap Airport

Siem Reap’s airport is small, but efficient. 

Siem Reap Airport in Cambodia

There are just a few international flights landing each day, mostly from Vietnam and Thailand

Your luggage (if you checked bags) will arrive quickly on the carousel. Since you were on a domestic flight, you don’t have to go through customs or show your visa.

Once you exit the airport, you’ll have tuk-tuk and taxi options immediately available. There’s a taxi office at the main doors, and they offer very fair rates. 

Siem Reap airport tuk-tuks

Some people will suggest haggling with the drivers to get lower rates, but frankly: their services are worth far more than what they charge.


Bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Several bus companies operate daily between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. 

The bus is the most popular and cost-effective way to travel between the two cities. There are various bus options to choose from, including standard buses and more comfortable VIP buses.

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Bus:

  1. Duration: The bus ride typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Some VIP buses may offer faster and more comfortable journeys.
  2. Departure Points: Buses from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap usually depart from the city’s central bus stations or terminals. In Phnom Penh, you can catch a bus from locations like the Giant Ibis Bus Terminal or other popular bus companies’ offices.
  3. Ticket Booking: You can book bus tickets in advance online, or directly at the bus company offices. Booking ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons, is recommended to secure a seat.

Cost of the Bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Generally, you can get between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap for under $20 (each way).

  1. Standard Bus: Standard buses are generally the most affordable option. Tickets for these buses could cost anywhere from approximately $10 to $15 USD.
  2. VIP Bus: VIP buses offer more comfort and sometimes additional amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and refreshments. Ticket prices for VIP buses may range from approximately $15 to $25 USD.
  3. Sleeper Bus: Sleeper buses provide reclining seats that allow you to lie down during the journey. These buses are usually more expensive, with ticket prices in the range of approximately $20 to $30 USD.

Remember: road conditions in Cambodia can vary, and the bus ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap may be bumpy! If you’re prone to motion-sickness, bring some medication, in addition to water and snacks!

Cambodian Bus Companies

Several reputable bus companies operate on this route, including:

  1. Giant Ibis: Giant Ibis is a well-known and reputable bus company in Cambodia. They offer both standard and VIP bus services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Their buses are known for their comfort and safety.
  2. Mekong Express: Mekong Express is another popular bus company that provides transportation services between the two cities. They offer a range of bus options, including VIP and sleeper buses.
  3. Vireak Buntham Express: Vireak Buntham is a long-established bus company in Cambodia with services connecting various destinations, including Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  4. Sorya Bus: Sorya Bus is a well-established bus company that serves various routes within Cambodia, including the journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  5. KSO Cambodia: KSO Cambodia is another transportation option, providing bus services between the two cities.
  6. Paramount Angkor Express: Paramount Angkor Express is known for its budget-friendly bus services connecting Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  7. CamboTicket: CamboTicket is an online booking platform that partners with various bus companies, making it convenient for travelers to book tickets from multiple operators.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are full of hotel, rental, and hostel options.

You can use the interactive map below to plug in your dates, and move around to find an option that fits your desires.

I’m centering the map in a popular part of Siem Reap, where you’ll find a lot of tourists, ex-pats, restaurants, and bars.


Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Day Trip

Not many people take a day trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (or vice versa) … but … it *is* doable! I can actually vouch for this option, since I’ve done it.

While you can hire a driver in Phnom Penh to take you the distance, it’s easier (and far more efficient) to fly. Even with all the time in the airport (and in flight), you’ll save yourself 8 hours of travel time by flying.

Private Taxi Day Trip

The cost of hiring a driver would likely be around $150 (USD) and the day trip would look something like this:

  • Leave Phnom Penh: 6:00 am
  • Arrive at Angkor Wat: 12:00 pm
  • Explore temples all afternoon
  • Dinner in Siem Reap: 5:00 pm
  • Drive back to Phnom Penh
  • Arrive in Phnom Penh: midnight

Day Trip by Plane

Airline departure times vary, so this is a rough estimate of what a day trip would look like. This is the schedule I followed: 

  • Depart Phnom Penh International Airport: 10:00 am
  • Arrive at Siem Reap Airport: 11:00 am
  • Tuk-tuk takes you to Angkor Wat: by 11:30 am
  • Explore temples until 5:00 pm
  • Dinner in Siem Reap until 6:30 pm
  • Flight departs from Siem Reap at 8:30 pm
Siem Reap International Airport in Cambodia

Whether you choose to fly or drive, you’ll spend about 5 to 6 hours at the temples near Siem Reap. It’s not enough to truly soak in the history of this area, but if it’s all your schedule allows, I’d highly recommend making the effort! A day trip to Siem Reap will be a highlight of your trip to Cambodia.


Things to do in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, offers a mix of historical, cultural, and modern attractions. 

Phnom Penh Royal Palace

Here are some of the top tours offered, if you’d like to go with a guide:

➡️ Click to Book: Phnom Penh Tour

  • Full-day tour, including hotel pickup and admission tickets to all top sites.

➡️ Click to Book: Phnom Penh & Killing Fields

  • Tour Phnom Penh, plus the Genocide Museum and Killing Fields

➡️ Click to Book: Bike Tour

  • Hotel pickup, a ferry ride, and a bike tour of Silk Island

➡️ Click to Book: Mekong Sunset Cruise

  • Private sunset cruise Tonle Sap and Mekong River
Jared Dillingham in a tuktuk in Cambodia

Alternatively, you can easily take a tuk-tuk to any of these attractions in Phnom Penh:

  1. Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, which is home to the King of Cambodia. The Silver Pagoda within the palace grounds houses an impressive collection of Buddha statues and is known for its beautiful silver floor.
  2. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21): This former high school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge regime serves as a haunting reminder of Cambodia’s dark past. It’s a sobering but important historical site.
  3. Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Located a short distance from Phnom Penh, this is one of the most notorious sites associated with the Khmer Rouge regime. The memorial stupa contains thousands of skulls and serves as a memorial to the victims.
  4. National Museum of Cambodia: Explore the country’s rich history and culture through an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
  5. Wat Phnom: Visit the city’s namesake, Wat Phnom, a beautiful temple situated on a small hill with lush gardens. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
  6. Central Market (Phsar Thmey): This iconic Art Deco building houses a bustling market where you can shop for clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and local food.
  7. Russian Market (Phsar Tuol Tom Pong): Another popular market where you can find a wide variety of goods, including clothing, handicrafts, and electronics.
  8. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: Located about 40 kilometers from Phnom Penh, this sanctuary houses a variety of rescued animals, including tigers, elephants, and more.
  9. Mekong River Cruise: Take a cruise along the Mekong River to enjoy scenic views and experience the local way of life along the riverbanks.
  10. Koh Dach (Silk Island): Just a short boat ride away, this island is known for its silk weaving traditions. You can visit local workshops and purchase handmade silk products. Take a tuk-tuk to the ferry (which costs about 25 cents for each crossing). From there, you can continue on your hired tuk-tuk, or rent a bike to go around the island.
  11. Phnom Penh Sky Bars: Many of the hotels and other buildings in Phnom Penh have sky bars on the roofs! They’re great places for midday snacks, sunsets, or late-night drinks.
Phnom Penh sky bar

Things to do in Siem Reap

You won’t run out of things to do on a visit to Siem Reap! It’s mostly known as the home to ancient temples, most notably: Angkor Wat.

Here are the top tour options in Siem Reap:

➡️ Click to Book: Angkor Wat Sunrise

➡️ Click to Book: Angkor Wat & Other Temples

➡️ Click to Book: National Park Waterfalls

A temple near Siem Reap, Cambodia

Alternatively, it’s very doable to explore Angkor Wat on your own by hiring a tuk-tuk to take you around to these places:

  1. Angkor Wat: This iconic temple complex is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Explore the intricate carvings, massive stone structures, and stunning architecture of Angkor Wat at sunrise or sunset.
  2. Angkor Thom: Visit the fortified city of Angkor Thom, which includes notable sites like the Bayon Temple with its giant stone faces, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
  3. Ta Prohm: Known for its atmospheric and photogenic appearance, Ta Prohm is a temple where ancient trees have grown through and around the ruins. It’s a must-visit for its unique and picturesque setting.
  4.  Beng Mealea: This temple, often called the “Indiana Jones temple,” is located in the jungle and offers a more adventurous and less crowded experience compared to some of the other Angkor temples.
  5.  Angkor National Museum: Learn more about the history and significance of the Angkor temples through a collection of artifacts, multimedia displays, and informative exhibits.
  6.  Pub Street and Night Market: Explore the vibrant Pub Street area in downtown Siem Reap, known for its restaurants, bars, and lively nightlife. The adjacent Night Market is a great place for shopping and trying local street food.
Best time to visit Cambodia

What’s the Best Month to Visit Cambodia?

Ultimately, the best time to visit Phnom Penh or Siem Reap depends on your tolerance for weather conditions and your desire for crowd levels. Many travelers prefer the cooler and drier months of November to February for a more comfortable experience, but if you’re looking for budget-friendly options and don’t mind some rain, the wet season from May to October can offer unique experiences with fewer tourists.

There are year-round benefits to visiting Cambodia, which remain the same regardless of the heat, humidity, and monsoonal rains.

  • The Culture & People: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are rich in culture and history, and you can explore its heritage, including temples, palaces, and museums, throughout the year.
  • Cuisine: Enjoy delicious Cambodian cuisine, with street food vendors and restaurants serving traditional dishes.
  • Local Markets: Explore vibrant local markets like Central Market and Russian Market to shop for souvenirs and local products.
Phnom Penh Market

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of different months to help you decide:

  • Siem Reap in January and February:
    • Dry and Cool Weather: These months offer pleasant, dry, and cooler weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
    • Festivals: You can experience various cultural festivals and celebrations, including Chinese New Year.
    • Crowds: The nice weather draws the largest crowds of the year.
  • Siem Reap in March and April:
    • Warm Weather: It’s the start of the hot season, but you can still enjoy outdoor activities comfortably.
    • Khmer New Year: Celebrate the Khmer New Year, which is a major cultural event with parades, parties, and traditional ceremonies.
  • Siem Reap in May and June:
    • Monsoon Season: The weather is hot, and turns humid with the start of the monsoon season.
    • Fewer Tourists: As it’s the beginning of the rainy season, there are fewer tourists, meaning you can enjoy attractions with smaller crowds and potentially lower prices.
  • Siem Reap in July and August:
    • The Rainy Season: These months see the heaviest rainfall, so plan accordingly. The days usually won’t be washouts, but rather involve afternoon storms.
    • Indoor Activities: Due to the frequent rain, consider exploring museums, markets, and indoor attractions.
    • Smaller Crowds: Fewer tourists visit in the summer, and you’ll find better hotel deals.
  • Siem Reap in September and October:
    • End of the Rainy Season: The rains start to subside, and the countryside remains lush and green.
    • Small Crowds: Before the high tourist season begins in November, you’ll still have smaller crowds and better hotel deals.
  • Siem Reap in November and December:
    • Cooler and Dryer: These months offer cooler, more comfortable weather with minimal rainfall. Weatherwise, they’re prime for visitors.
    • Festivals: Celebrate Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November, a major Cambodian event with boat races and other festivities.
    • Large Crowds: Expect thousands a day to visit Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat in Cambodia

The Weather in Phnom Penh & Siem Reap

Much of Cambodia experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Again, the dry season is generally November through February.

Here’s a general overview of the weather each month:

January:

  • Temperature: Highs around 31°C (88°F), lows around 20°C (68°F).
  • Rainfall: Very little to no rainfall.

February:

  • Temperature: Highs around 32°C (90°F), lows around 21°C (70°F).
  • Rainfall: Minimal rainfall.

March:

  • Temperature: Highs around 34°C (93°F), lows around 24°C (75°F).
  • Rainfall: Still relatively low.

April:

  • Temperature: Highs around 35°C (95°F), lows around 26°C (79°F).
  • Rainfall: Dry conditions continue.

May:

  • Temperature: Highs around 34°C (93°F), lows around 26°C (79°F).
  • Rainfall: The start of the wet season with occasional showers.

June:

  • Temperature: Highs around 33°C (91°F), lows around 26°C (79°F).
  • Rainfall: Significant rainfall and increased humidity.

July:

  • Temperature: Highs around 32°C (90°F), lows around 26°C (79°F).
  • Rainfall: Frequent heavy showers and thunderstorms.

August:

  • Temperature: Highs around 32°C (90°F), lows around 25°C (77°F).
  • Rainfall: High rainfall and high humidity.

September:

  • Temperature: Highs around 31°C (88°F), lows around 25°C (77°F).
  • Rainfall: Heavy rains continue.

October:

  • Temperature: Highs around 30°C (86°F), lows around 24°C (75°F).
  • Rainfall: Rainfall decreases but can still be moderate.

November:

  • Temperature: Highs around 30°C (86°F), lows around 22°C (72°F).
  • Rainfall: Decreasing rainfall.

December:

  • Temperature: Highs around 30°C (86°F), lows around 20°C (68°F).
  • Rainfall: Minimal rainfall, typically dry.
A monkey at a temple near Siem Reap Cambodia

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap FAQs

Let’s tackle a few final frequently-asked-questions about traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Many of these were already answered above:

How far is it from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?

The distance between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is roughly 320 kilometers, or about 200 miles.

Is there a train from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?

There is no train between the cities, but you’ll easily be able to take a bus, private taxi, or flight.

How many days should I spend in Siem Reap?

You can accomplish a lot in just one day in Siem Reap. You’ll be able to spend a couple hours at several temples, and also enjoy a nice meal in town in a single day. However, if you’d like to learn more about the history and the culture, you’ll likely need at least three days in this area. 

Spending a few extra days will also allow you to explore areas farther into the jungle and countryside, where you’ll find more waterfalls and temples.

How many days should I spend in Phnom Penh?

You can see many things in a single day in Phnom Penh. If you’re here on business, or just for a day before a river cruise, you’ll still be able to visit the palace, the temples in the city, the market, and even Silk Island if you plan the day right.

Temple in Phnom Penh Cambodia

Wrap: Is the Trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Worth It?

It’s definitely worth making the trip between these two cities if you’re going to Cambodia … whether it’s for two days or an entire week.

If I had a week to spend between the cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, I’d spend my first day in Phnom Penh, and then travel up to Siem Reap. I’d spend the bulk of my trip in the Siem Reap area. I’d travel back to Phnom Penh for a final day, before taking my flight out of Cambodia.

The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh

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