City-to-City and Local Travel Guide in Cambodia

Cambodia offers a variety of transport options to help travelers move between cities and explore local destinations conveniently. Here’s a guide to navigating Cambodia’s main cities and rural areas by bus, train, taxi, and other forms of transport.

1. Traveling Between Cities

Bus Services

Long-Distance Buses: Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel between Cambodia’s major cities, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Bus companies like Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer comfortable, reliable services with amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and rest stops.
Ticket Booking: Tickets can be booked online or at bus terminals. Some buses also allow you to reserve tickets through your hotel or guesthouse.
Travel Time:
- Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Approximately 6-7 hours.
- Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville: About 4-5 hours.
Cost: Around $10–$15 for standard buses, while VIP and luxury buses may cost slightly more.

Train Services

Cambodian Railways: Trains are slower but provide scenic views and a unique travel experience. Cambodia has a few rail routes operated by Royal Railway, connecting Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Battambang, and Poipet (near the Thai border).
Popular Routes:
- Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville: Ideal for coastal trips, with a travel time of around 7 hours.
- Phnom Penh to Battambang: This journey takes roughly 10 hours but offers scenic landscapes.
Frequency: Trains run less frequently than buses, so check schedules in advance.

Domestic Flights

For travelers short on time, domestic flights are the fastest way to move between key cities. Airlines such as Cambodia Angkor Air and Lanmei Airlines operate flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Duration:
- Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Approximately 45 minutes.
- Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville: About 1 hour.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the season but generally range from $50–$100 for one-way tickets.

2. Local Travel Options

Tuk-Tuks

Overview: Tuk-tuks are a fun and inexpensive way to explore Cambodian cities. They are widely available and often used for short distances.
Rates: Generally affordable, but it’s best to negotiate the price before starting your ride. Apps like Grab also offer tuk-tuk booking services in larger cities.
Tips: Always confirm the destination and fare upfront, as prices can vary depending on distance and time of day.

Motorbike Taxis (Motodops)

For Short Trips: Motorbike taxis, or “motodops,” are common in urban and rural areas alike. They’re faster than tuk-tuks and can navigate traffic more easily, making them ideal for short trips.
Cost: Often cheaper than tuk-tuks. As with tuk-tuks, it’s advisable to negotiate fares beforehand.

Bicycles

Popular for Tourists: Renting a bicycle is a great option for exploring Cambodia’s more scenic areas at your own pace, especially in Siem Reap, where you can visit Angkor Wat and nearby temples by bike.
Rental Cost: Around $1–$5 per day. Many guesthouses and hostels offer bike rentals.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Private Taxis: Taxis are available in Cambodia’s main cities and are suitable for longer distances or when traveling with more luggage. You can hire taxis at the airport, hotels, or through travel agencies.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab operate in Phnom Penh, making it easy to book a ride at a transparent rate without bargaining.
Tips: For intercity travel by taxi, ask your hotel or travel agency to help you find a trusted driver and agree on a price before departure.

3. Travel Tips for Moving Around Cambodia

Currency: Cambodia uses the Cambodian riel and US dollars interchangeably. Keep small bills on hand for transportation fares.
Safety: When using tuk-tuks or motodops, hold onto your belongings as petty theft can occur, especially in busy areas.
Schedules: Bus and train schedules can change, so it’s advisable to check timings in advance and book seats when possible.