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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 215 kilometre distance from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 5 ways to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, train, taxi, flight. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $11. The fastest route is by flight (0h 30m).
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30m
$65
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3h
$81
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4h
$14
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5h
$16
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6h 35m
$11
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The bus is an affordable way to get from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Bus fares start from $16 and the journey takes around 3-5h.
You can choose from seven bus companies operating on this route.
Airbus and Giant Ibis receive the best reviews and have a good safety record. If you wish to travel by bus, we recommend that you book with them.
A minivan ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic.
Minivans are usually quicker than buses because they make fewer stops along the way.
There are companies operating on this route: .
A train ride from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh costs around $11. The journey takes about 6h 35m, which is almost twice as long as travelling by bus or minivan, and can sometimes take even longer depending on delays.
But the advantage of the train is that you can transport your bicycle or motorbike. Tickets for your vehicle start from 5 USD and can be bought at the service desk at the station. You can read more information about this on the railway website.
Trains on this route run every day, but the type of train depends on when you travel. From Thursday to Sunday, Royal Railway operates KiHa model trains. These are refurbished Japanese trains with better seating, stronger air-conditioning and improved onboard facilities.
From Monday to Wednesday, the train uses older carriages. These are more basic and come with fewer amenities.
Train travel in Cambodia can be quite slow, and delays are common. If you're not in a rush, though, the journey is worth it. You'll pass through quiet countryside and small towns that most travellers never get to see.The train takes the following route:
Sihanoukville Railway Station - Kampot Train Station - Kep Train Station - Takeo Train Station - Phnom Penh Railway Station
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
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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A private transfer from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes , and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about each.
You can also hail a taxi on the road or arrange a transfer with your hotel. Hotels also quote starting prices of around 80 USD for a sedan. You may get cheaper or higher rates when getting a taxi on the street, but that depends on your negotiation skills.
If you don’t like to haggle, booking online through BookAway is the best option.
Air Cambodia (formerly Cambodia Angkor Air), Hanh Air and JC Airlines used to run direct flights from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh that took just 30 minutes and cost around $65. But they’ve all stopped operating this route.
These days, only Air Cambodia offers indirect flights from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, starting at around 220 USD. Depending on the layover, the journey can take anywhere from 5 to 20 hours.
With buses and minivans covering the same journey in just 3 to 4 hours, flying really isn’t worth it anymore.
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Carbon Footprint
This 215 km journey produces approximately 19 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
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.
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!
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!
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