How to get around Cambodia
Navigating Cambodia is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
For intercity travel in Cambodia, buses and minivans are the most common and economical choices, connecting major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Bus fares typically range from $8-$12 for routes such as Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (5-6 hours), $9-$13 for Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville (4-5 hours), and $5-$7 for Siem Reap to Battambang.
More premium bus services, like Giant Ibis, may cost slightly more but often offer better amenities and safety records. Sleeper buses are available for overnight journeys, with prices ranging from $12-$18.
Private taxis offer a more expensive but comfortable option, with fixed rates for popular routes. For example, a private car from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs around $150. Shared taxis can be a good option for groups of 3-4 people to reduce costs.
Train travel is limited but available on two lines operated by Royal Railway: Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh to Poipet via Battambang. Tickets for trains generally cost between $5-$7, but departures are less frequent.
Domestic flights are the most expensive option, with one-way tickets between major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville typically ranging from $100-$150. Booking flights in advance can sometimes lead to better deals.
Travel Within Cities
Within Cambodian cities, tuk-tuks are the most popular and budget-friendly mode of transport. Short tuk-tuk rides typically cost $1-$5, with longer distances potentially reaching $10 or more. Negotiating the fare in advance is recommended. For a full day of sightseeing, hiring a tuk-tuk driver can cost around $30-$50.
Motorbike taxis, or 'moto-dops,' are a fast and cheap option for solo travelers, with fares usually between $1-$3 for city rides. Scooter and motorbike rentals are available for those who prefer to explore independently, with daily prices ranging from $8-$16 for a 125cc scooter in Siem Reap. Monthly rentals for scooters can be around $60-$80.
Phnom Penh has a small public bus network with tickets costing about $0.40 per ride. Bicycles are the cheapest way to get around for shorter journeys, with daily rentals costing $1-$2.
Ride-hailing apps like PassApp and Grab are widely used in major cities and provide transparent pricing, helping to avoid negotiation.
