
How to Get From Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre
Bus · Tuk-Tuk · Private
In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 20 kilometre (12 miles) distance from Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to get there — whether you want to travel on a budget, reach Phnom Penh City Centre as fast as possible, or enjoy the ride in comfort. We base our information on verified schedules, ticket prices, and on-the-ground insights from recent travellers.
Techo International Airport: Phnom Penh’s new gateway to Cambodia
The new Techo International Airport (KTI) in Kandal Province, about 20 km south of Phnom Penh, is now the main gateway to Cambodia’s capital. It was officially inaugurated in October 2025, replacing Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH). After 63 years of service, the old airport finally reached its limit, with no space left to expand as passenger numbers kept growing. That’s why the new Techo Airport was built. Filled with greenery and powered mostly by solar energy, it features a sweeping canopy roof and steel “trees” that let in plenty of natural light. Its goal is to be one of the world’s greenest airports. The new airport sits a bit farther from the city than the old one, but getting into Phnom Penh is still fairly straightforward. In this guide, you’ll find all the ways to travel between Techo International Airport and Phnom Penh city centre.What are the 3 ways to travel from Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre?
There are three ways to travel the 20 km distance from Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre. You can choose between the bus, tuk-tuk, and private.
The journey takes between 1h–1h 30m and the quickest way is by tuk-tuk (1h). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 2,000 KHR ($0.40).
1h 30m - 2h
2,000 KHR ($0.40)
1h
30,000 KHR ($7.50)
45m - 1h
63,000 KHR ($16)
Where to stay in Phnom Penh?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh at the bottom of this page.
Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre by Airport Shuttle
If you’re travelling on a budget, the Airport Express Bus is the cheapest way to get from Techo International Airport (KTI) to the city centre. A one-way ticket costs just 2,000 KHR ($0.40) and buses run daily from 05:30 to 23:30.
You can catch the bus just outside the arrivals hall — head left when you exit the terminal, and you’ll see the clearly marked bus stop where blue and white buses are parked.
The route includes four main stops:
- Canadia Park (AEB01 / AEB02) – in front of Cambodia Railway Station
- Royal University of Law and Economics (AEB03 / AEB04)
- Samdech Techo Hun Sen Boulevard at Bred Bank (AEB05 / AEB06)
- AEON Mean Chey, AEON Mall 3 (AEB07 / AEB08)
If you’re heading to the riverside area, hop off at Canadia Park, about 1 km from Phnom Penh Night Market. For Boeung Keng Kang (BKK), get off at the Royal University of Law and Economics, roughly 2 km away. From both stops, you may have to take a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride to get to your hotel.
The airport shuttle ride takes around 1h 30m - 2h, depending on traffic. It’s a great option if you’re saving on transport costs and want a local experience. But we don't recommend taking the bus if you're short on time.
You can check Techo Airport's official website for more information.
Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre by Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuks or auto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Southeast Asia and an interesting way to start your journey into Phnom Penh.
If you’re travelling solo and want an affordable private transfer, hopping on a tuk-tuk is a great option. You’ll find them lined up outside the airport arrivals area.
You can also book one through ride-hailing apps like Grab, WowNow, Move, or PassApp — super convenient if you don’t want to haggle.
An airport tuk-tuk usually costs around 60,000 KHR ($15), but it’s often cheaper when booked through an app, with fares starting from about 30,000 KHR ($7.50).
Just a heads up: if you book via an app, there might not be a designated pickup area for tuk-tuks. You’ll need to communicate with your driver and agree on a meeting point.
WARNING: There have been many reports of luggage theft in Phnom Penh, even from a moving tuk-tuk. Make sure your luggage and smaller bags are secured and close to you at all times. Refrain from wearing expensive jewelry and don't flash your gadgets throughout the ride.
Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City Centre by Private Transport
The most convenient way to travel from Techo International Airport (KTI) to Phnom Penh city centre is by private transfer. Aside from tuk-tuks, there are several private transport options available for this route: ride-hailing apps, pre-booked cars, and airport taxis.
The journey into the city usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Prices start from 63,000 KHR ($16).
Ride-Hailing Apps
The popular ride-hailing apps in Cambodia are Grab, WowNow, Move, and PassApp. A car ride costs about 63,000 KHR ($16). Note that you’ll need internet and a local SIM for most apps, except Grab, which works with international numbers too.
TIP: New users often get discounts! Check each app or their Facebook pages for promo codes before booking for a chance to save a few dollars.
Pre-booked Taxi
If you’re landing late at night, it’s worth pre-booking a taxi or private transfer via Klook or 12Go.Asia to make things easier when you arrive. Klook offers comfortable cars with enough space for your luggage. Rates for a 3-seater private car start from 101,000 KHR ($25).
You can also arrange a ride on 12Go.Asia, although they're a bit more expensive, with fares starting from 157,000 KHR ($39) for a 4-seater and 217,000 KHR ($54) for a 7-seater.
Airport Taxi
You'll find taxis waiting right outside the arrivals hall, perfect if you prefer to hop in and go. Airport taxi rates from Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre start at 141,000 KHR ($35).
Our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh
- Daun Penh is the city centre and historic area of Phnom Penh. It's where you’ll find the Royal Palace, government buildings and the most colonial architecture. Here is the place to stay if you want to be close to the top things to do in the city.
- BBK1 boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It's close to the city centre, without being as hectic. There are plenty of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hipsters cafes here.
- Riverside is, as the name suggests, along the river. You'll wake up to river views and be close to plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and street food.
White Corner Hotel
As the name suggests, White Corner Hotel has a very white colour scheme both inside and out, giving it a clean and modern feel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, providing everything that you need.
If you stay here, you'll be located in the BBK1 neighbourhood, a very fun place to be staying. It's also within walking distance of the must-visit S-21 prison.
- Clean and modern
- Great location
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
- Bikes are available
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Stay Sweet Homestay
With only four rooms available in this intimate homestay, you'll need to book Stay Sweet in advance if you want to guarantee yourself a room. The almost perfect rating is mainly down to the incredible owner, Panha, who provides a friendly welcome and the best recommendations.
Staying here you'll also receive a discount at the local swimming pool and gym. The onsite restaurant is also a must-try, the food is delicious!
- Gets booked up
- Amazing owner
- Access to local swimming pool and gym
- Delicious onsite restaurant
Private rooms start from $30 per night.
TAO Riverside Residence
TAO Riverside Residence is located right on the river offering spectacular views. Most of the rooms have private balconies where you can relax after a long day of exploring and just watch the boats gliding along the river.
The rooms are mainly studio style with most rooms having their own kitchenette and seating areas. They're beautifully designed and super modern, creating an environment you won't want to leave. On top of that, the Wi-Fi is great!
- Amazing river views
- Private balconies
- Large and modern rooms
- Great Wi-Fi
Deluxe double studios start from $60 per night.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Phnom Penh to Phnom Penh. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance from Phnom Penh to Phnom Penh is 20 km.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s buzzing capital, can feel a bit hectic at first glance. It doesn’t have the same easy-going charm as Siem Reap, but it has a character all of its own.
It’s definitely not a place you want to skip! In fact, it’s probably the most important place to learn about the country’s devastating genocide and traumatic history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields will open your eyes to what humanity is capable of.
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