How to Get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

The bus is an affordable way to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Bus fares start from $10, and the journey takes around 5h 30m - 7h 30m. There are nine bus companies operating on this route, with regular departures throughout the day. That means you can easily find a time that fits your plans. Buses on this route have a good reputation for safety. They’re generally steady and slower-paced, which makes the journey feel more relaxed. You’ll find standard seated buses, sleeper buses, and more premium options with extra legroom. Since the travel time from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is at least 5.5 hours, it's worth upgrading to a premium bus with Airbus or Giant Ibis if your budget allows. The extra space and added comfort can make a long ride feel much more enjoyable.

A minivan ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs around $10. The minivan journey takes about 5h 30m - 6h, depending on traffic. Minivans depart almost every hour and usually make fewer stops than buses, so the journey can be a bit quicker. That said, legroom is limited, and minivan drivers are known for driving fast. Below, you’ll find five companies operating on this route. They generally receive good reviews from travellers, but we still recommend checking recent reviews before booking.

Taking the ferry from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is a completely different experience compared to travelling overland. Instead of highways and traffic, you’ll cruise along Tonle Sap Lake. and see floating villages and daily life on the water. Ferries on this route only operate during the wet season (June to November), as water levels need to be high enough. You can book your tickets with Cambodia River Express, which runs ferry departures every Saturday and Tuesday at 08:30. Tickets cost $49 per person, and the journey takes around 7h - 8h.

Departure and Arrival Stations

In Phnom Penh, the ferry departs from the main pier along Sisowath Riverside Park. In Siem Reap, passengers are dropped off outside the Cambodian Commercial Bank, right next to Pub Street in the city centre.