Getting There and Around in Phnom Penh

Getting There

By Air – All major regional airlines fly into Phnom Penh International Airport. For travelers from outside the region, the cities for catching connecting flights are Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong and Ho Chih Minh City. Flying into Phnom Penh can be pretty affordable on the many regional budget airlines. The city center is just a 15 minute tax ride for about US$10.

By Bus/taxi – Services have improved sharply, and Phnom Penh is a hub for buses from most major towns. Air-conditioned buses come into the Central Market or near Street 104 and Sisowath Quay. There are several lines plying the Siem Reap-Phnom Penh route for around US$5, or share a taxi for around US$7 per person.

For long-distance trips from such spots as Battambang, it is best to pay the extra for an advance reservation A regular fare is US4. A premium ticket from Siem Reap is $9 on the Mekong Express Luxury Bus. Some bus companies  to consider are Mekong Express, Ho Wah Genting Transport Company, Capitol Tours, and Phnom Penh Sorya Transport Co.

By Boat – Fast boats leave from Siem Reap for a 5 hour scenic trip which goes onto Tonle Sap Lake. Expect to pay between $20-$25. Boats dock on Sisowath Quay. Services from Chau Duc in Vietnam to Phnom Penh are offered by both regular and luxury boat operators.

Getting Around

Phnom Penh is fairly easy to get around as it is arranged on a grid and downtown is walkable. Motos (motorcycle taxis) are everywhere and short trips in town go for US$1.00 and more at night. There are no metered taxis, but private taxis wait outside popular areas; agree on a price before hand.

For a relaxing ride, the cyclo is the way to go, although it is probably too slow for travel from one end of Phnom Penh to the other.

Tuk-Tuk

Also known as remorque moto, these motorbikes with carriages are a recent addition to the traffic scene and are here to stay. Prices are double those of the motos.

Cars and motorbikes

Cars can be hired through tour agencies, guesthouses and hotels, and a driver can be arranged as well. Motorbikes are found at Lucky!Lucky! and its competitor New!New! next door. Serious bikers should check out Riverside Motorcycle Tours.