How to Get from Phnom Penh Airport to Siem Reap – Best Transport Options

Direct flight from PNH to REP is the fastest way to reach Siem Reap after arrival. Flight time is about 50 minutes. Carriers such as Cambodia Angkor Air and Lanmei Airlines operate daily, with multiple departures. Booking early helps secure a good fare, letting you cut delays compared with ground travel.

Private car transfer offers door-to-door service; a driver waits in arrivals, and you travel in a comfortable sedan or SUV. The drive takes about 4.5–5 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Expect to pay roughly $120–$180 for this option. It suits families or groups who want flexibility and a relaxed pace. Consider this if you land late.

Coach or minivan options provide a budget-friendly path. Travel time is typically 5–6 hours, and prices range from about $12–25 per seat, depending on the operator and luggage. Reputable options include Giant Ibis and Mekong Express; departures are from central Phnom Penh, with occasional airport pickup for a surcharge. If you travel with friends, you can share a ride to reduce costs. Shared seating works well for small groups.

Tips to streamline the trip: compare total time, including time to reach the terminal or hotel; book transfers in advance during high season; in Siem Reap you’ll find reliable ride-hailing apps for getting from the bus terminal or airport to your hotel. Carry some USD for tolls or snacks, and keep a flexible mindset for traffic at peak hours. Ask your hotel for a recommended operator.

Flight option: PNH to REP – schedule, durations, and baggage tips

Take a morning PNH to REP flight to maximize time for sightseeing in Siem Reap and reap the benefits of cooler hours and a smooth arrival. This option is commercial, straightforward, and widely used by travelers.

Find the current timetable by checking the airline site or your booking platform; schedules shift between peak and shoulder seasons. The snapshot below presents patterns you should expect, then you can find the flight that fits your plan.

• First flight: typically around 06:30–07:15
• Last flight: usually around 18:45–19:30
• Frekvencia: roughly every 60–120 minutes in busy periods; gaps can occur in off-peak times
• Air time: 40–50 minutes in the air
• Távolság: air distance between PNH and REP about 280–320 km
• Aircraft: mostly small jets or turboprops, comfortable for the short hop

Durations and process

• Check-in and security: plan 60–90 minutes before departure
• Door-to-door time: typically 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, depending on transfers and queues
• At arrival: you may reach the baggage hall within 15–20 minutes after landing

Baggage tips

• Allowance: most domestic flights include 20 kg checked baggage and a 7 kg carry-on; verify on your ticket as some low-cost options vary
• Carry-on packing: keep essential items (passport, visa if needed, boarding pass, meds) in a small bag under 7 kg
• Weight management: pack light for flexibility; if you plan to buy souvenirs, factor potential extra weight or pay for an extra bag
• On the day: arrive early, tell staff if you anticipate overweight, and consider alternatives if needed

Ground transfers and practicalities

• From Phnom Penh (PNH): licensed taxis or hotel shuttles are common; airport to city center is about 8–10 km, 15–25 minutes depending on traffic
• From Siem Reap (REP): the airport is about 7–12 km from central Siem Reap; rides typically cost $4–$12
• Vehicles: options include sedans, minivans, and tuk-tuks; for groups, a single vehicle is often the best value
• Parking: short-term parking is available at both airports; you can park and arrange pickup or use a curbside option

Practical notes

• Visa considerations: visa requirements depend on nationality; whether you use a visa on arrival or an e-visa, keep the entry documents ready and separate from your flight documents
• Local help: a local agent such as seila can explain options, compare schedules, and help you find the best fit
• Where to go after landing: in Siem Reap, ride options are plentiful around REP; you can head straight to your hotel or begin sightseeing plans

If you travel with a friend, coordinate pickups and tell them to confirm their preferred time; also them to check the timetable on their device. This should not feel overwhelming, and it helps you maximize time in Siem Reap’s sights. Thanks for reading, and enjoy your time in Reap–Siem Reap’s gateway to amazing temples and vibrant markets.

Bus and minivan options: operators, travel times, and boarding points

Direct, seat-assigned express buses are the fastest and most reliable way from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. For speed and comfort, pick Giant Ibis or Mekong Express; expect about 4.5–5 hours on an express service, or 5.5–6 hours on standard buses. Minivans can trim transit time by a little but usually involve more stops and less space, with typical durations around 4–5 hours. Tickets range roughly from $12 to $25 depending on class and operator, so booking in advance helps secure your seat. You can google to compare options and make a short list of 3–4 operators, then choose what fits your schedule and budget.

Operators and travel times

Giant Ibis operates regular departures with a focus on comfort, offering morning and afternoon services. Mekong Express provides similar daytime options and a secondary late-afternoon run. Sorya Transport runs multiple daily trips, typically at a lower price point. Seila offers budget-friendly seats with straightforward routing. VIP or express seats cut travel to about 4.5–5 hours; standard seats push toward 5.5–6 hours. Budget minivans from reputable fleets sit at the lower end, around 4–5 hours if roads are clear. Ticket prices generally range from $12 to $25, with higher prices for VIP or premium seating.

Boarding points and tips

In Phnom Penh, boarding points are typically a dedicated terminal or a central pickup point, not street corners. In Siem Reap, drop-offs occur at the operator’s terminal or a central area near markets. Always check your ticket for the exact meeting point; if you’re staying in town, your hotel can arrange a tuktuk to the terminal. Bring your passport or ID and the booking QR code. For last-mile navigation, use google to locate the nearest terminal and current pickup points; local staff and hotel reception can help you find the quickest route. Expat travelers often prefer hotel pickup or a private minivan for convenience. If you’re leaving with friends, confirm seats together and note the car number to avoid mixing with other groups. Seila and other smaller operators may offer direct drops at central Siem Reap spots; ask about door-to-door options when you buy tickets.

Private car or shared shuttle: door-to-door transfer from the airport to Siem Reap

I recommend a private car for a door-to-door transfer from Phnom Penh International Airport to Siem Reap. You meet your driver at the arrivals hall and head straight to your Siem Reap hotel, with no extra pickups or stops. This gateway-to-hotel flow saves time and simplifies your day.

Private car options include a compact sedan for two or a spacious van for a family or group. Prices typically range from about $120 to $180 one-way, depending on vehicle class, season, and provider. The drive lasts about five hours, with an extra hour possible during peak traffic. Your luggage fits easily, and the driver handles loading and unloading for you.

Shared shuttle offers a lower per-person price, usually around $25–$40, and delivers door-to-door service as well. You may share the ride with other travelers and stop at a couple of hotels along the way. The total time can stretch to six hours or more if traffic and stops pile up. If you’re traveling light and want to save, this is a solid option; otherwise, private car keeps you on schedule.

Booking tips: before you arrive, confirm the pickup time and meeting place at the arrivals area. Upon arrival, look for a sign with your name or the provider’s name. Compare options on google and check reviews to assess reliability. Request a fixed price to avoid unexpected charges, and ask about luggage limits and stop allowances. Gather information from a reliable blog or a Cambodian travel page to plan your route and stops.

If you travel with a group, a private van can save time and money compared with separate tickets for a shaky shared ride. For budget-minded travelers, another option is a shared shuttle that serves the same gateway route and leaves when full. In Cambodia, local providers such as dara and malin tailor services for road trips from PNH to Siem Reap, and many national operators run on national highways for smoother rides. Ask about the drop-off point and whether the driver handles luggage at the door.

Information to save time: plan ahead by reading a few blog posts, including malin’s blog or a Bayon travel note, to compare prices and routes. If you plan ahead, you can grab your bags and go as soon as you land. Use google to place the pickup on the map and coordinate with your Khmer-speaking driver, ensuring your group arrives at your place with confidence.

Tuktuk transportation: using a tuk-tuk for first/last mile, price negotiation, and safety

Book a tuk-tuk from the airport to a commercial street hub; afterward switch to a minivan for the long leg toward Siem Reap. This first/last mile setup keeps you flexible and avoids long taxi fares. The pickup area is located near the runway and street exits, where you’ll find drivers waiting for tourists. This approach is an excellent option for a smooth start.

Price negotiation is simple: insist on a price before you start. Typical fare to the hub sits around 5-10 USD for the vehicle; for four person travel, propose 10-12 USD to cover everyone and save a bit. Ensure the fare includes the full ride and no hidden charges. If you use Grab, you can lock in a pickup with an official driver and avoid haggling with street touts. The driver does not overcharge when you confirm the route in advance.

Safety basics: choose experienced drivers, check brakes and lights, and sit in the back seat for stability. Do not overload the vehicle; keep bags within reach and avoid risky routes at night along quiet streets. Good Khmer-speaking drivers can handle basic communication, and international tourists find clear directions helpful.

Meet drivers near the terminal by the stalls, including Seila and malin who commonly work such routes. They communicate in Khmer and basic English, so you can ask them to show the route on a map and confirm the next stop for a minivan or tickets to Siem Reap. For visa planning, carry passport and visa paperwork; some stalls offer visa information and can guide you to the correct road toward the bus terminal.

Combination trips work well: a short tuk-tuk leg to a central bus or minivan terminal cuts travel time. The original rate for a short hop is easy to negotiate, especially on the weekend when drivers expect more requests. A four seat vehicle keeps everyone together and does not disappoint. This approach suits budget travelers seeking a simple, friendly experience.

Tips to stay safe and comfortable: choose well-maintained vehicles with clean seats; verify the driver’s ID and vehicle plate; communicate any special needs in advance; avoid driving along isolated roads after dark; stick to busy streets and official stops. If you need to travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, consider the tuk-tuk for first/last mile and then a reliable minivan for the main leg, a safe combination that saves time and money.

Compare, book, and save: choosing the right option based on timing and budget

Best option if timing matters: book a private car with a driver in advance. It drops you door-to-door from Phnom Penh airport to Siem Reap, keeps you on schedule, and minimizes handling of luggage. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a fixed-price quote that fits your budget. The airport opened a dedicated transfers desk, and counters are built to show option signs; you can book through a hotel desk (ibis) or a local operator, then confirm via WhatsApp. For expat and tourist, this approach avoids surprises and saves time; in most cases you can leave the airport with a driver holding a sign there. Typical price ranges are roughly $110–$180 for a sedan or SUV, depending on vehicle size and whether you book direct or via a hotel. If you plan to continue to Battambang after Angkor, some operators offer multi-leg runs, but this post focuses on the Phnom Penh–Siem Reap leg. Thanks for reading and good luck with your planning.

Opció	Typical duration	Price range (USD)	Előnyök	Cons	Booking notes
Private car with driver	5–6 hours door-to-door	110–180	Door-to-door, fixed price, comfortable	Higher cost, traffic dependent	Book via hotel desk or local operator; confirm fixed price on WhatsApp
VIP minibus	6–7 hours	25–55	Low cost, shared space, decent speed	Less luggage space; stops and traffic	Reserve in advance through a local service or seila
Public bus	6–7 hours	12–18	Very cheap, regular departures	Basic comfort, slower at depots	Check timetable; confirm airport pickup or depot transfer
Flight Phnom Penh → Siem Reap	45–60 min air time	60–120	Fastest option, reliable if on schedule	Security lines, baggage fees, transfer time to airport	Book early; compare direct flights; plan transfer to hotel after arrival

Timing and price snapshot

When time is tight, a private car wins on predictability; in good traffic you reach Siem Reap earlier than buses or trains would allow. If you travel light and can endure a longer ride, a VIP minibus or public bus saves money, especially if you’re doing a multi-stop trip via seila or other local services. Flights suit lucky schedules, but factor check-in and airport transfer into your plan. Across seasons, prices shift with demand, and weekends can see a small premium on private transfers; always ask for a detailed, itemized quote to avoid hidden charges.

Booking tips and saving strategies

Compare popular services, ask for a detailed quote, and use WhatsApp or a quick call to confirm the pickup point. For a smooth handoff, request a driver who can handle your bags and speak basic English, then leave a note with the driver’s name in your chat. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a VIP minibus or a public bus, which runs on a published timetable and keeps the cost down; taxis at the airport can be convenient but price variability is common, so opt for fixed-rate desks or hotel-backed options there. Use a local operator or hotel desk to avoid miscommunication; many services post a clear meet point and contact number there. For expat and tourist groups, a single WhatsApp message can secure a responsive answer and a built, reliable plan there. If you need a single contact, call the operator or send a post with your flight number, date, and luggage amount, and they’ll reply with options. Through careful preparation, you’ll leave the airport with a concrete plan, ready to start your Siem Reap stay and, when time allows, with a flexible option to leave there for Battambang–thanks to multi-leg runs offered by some operators.