Phnom Penh, the bustling capital of Cambodia, is a popular destination for travelers coming from Bangkok. Whether you’re exploring Cambodiaโs rich history or embarking on a longer Southeast Asia adventure, there are several ways to travel between these two major cities. This guide covers all the available options for getting from Bangkok to Phnom Penh, including flights, buses, and overland routes, with tips on making the journey as smooth and convenient as possible. Donโt forget, you can book your tickets easily through our online search form at the top of the page to find the best travel options.
Overview of Travel Options
Hereโs a breakdown of the most popular ways to get from Bangkok to Phnom Penh:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: A budget-friendly choice, but the journey is long and can be tiring.
- By Train and Bus Combo: A more adventurous overland route, involving a train to the border and a bus from Cambodia to Phnom Penh.
- By Private Taxi: A comfortable but more expensive way to travel overland.
Each method varies in terms of cost, time, and convenience, which weโll explore in detail below.
Timetable
| Flight Don Mueang Airport - Phnom Penh เธฟ 1,660 1h 15m | |
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| Flight Bangkok - Phnom Penh เธฟ 2,079–13,858 1h 10m – 1d 1h 25m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Phnom Penh เธฟ 1,116–1,850 11h 30m – 21h | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Phnom Penh เธฟ 8,224–16,875 8h 55m – 13h 30m | |
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| Van Bangkok - Phnom Penh เธฟ 1,116 12h – 13h | |
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By Flight: The Fastest and Easiest Option
Flying is the quickest and easiest way to travel from Bangkok to Phnom Penh. With multiple daily flights, you can avoid the hassle of long overland travel and reach Phnom Penh in just over an hour. This is the ideal option for travelers short on time or those who prefer convenience.
Key Details:
- Airports: Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok and arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH).
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Price Range: Tickets range from 1,500 to 5,000 THB (~$45 to $150 USD), depending on the season and how early you book.
- Airlines:
- Thai Airways: A full-service airline offering daily direct flights.
- Bangkok Airways: Known for its high level of service, offering multiple flights daily.
- AirAsia: A budget carrier offering affordable direct flights.
Pros:
- Fastest and most convenient way to travel.
- Multiple flights available daily.
- No border hassles or overland delays.
Cons:
- More expensive than bus or train options.
- You miss the scenic overland journey.
Booking Tip:
Book your flight early to secure the best price. Use our integrated search form at the top of this page to compare flight options and prices.
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Overland Option
Taking a bus from Bangkok to Phnom Penh is one of the cheapest ways to travel between the two cities. This overland journey involves crossing the Poipet-Bavet border, one of the busiest crossings between Thailand and Cambodia. Although itโs a long trip, itโs ideal for budget travelers who donโt mind spending a day on the road.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Buses leave from Bangkokโs Mo Chit Bus Terminal or Khao San Road.
- Duration: The journey typically takes 12 to 15 hours, depending on border crossing delays.
- Price Range: Tickets cost between 700 to 1,200 THB (~$20 to $35 USD).
- Bus Companies:
- Giant Ibis: A reputable company known for its comfortable buses with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and border assistance.
- Virak Buntham: Offers direct bus services between Bangkok and Phnom Penh.
Pros:
- One of the most affordable ways to travel between Bangkok and Phnom Penh.
- Direct bus services reduce the hassle of transfers.
- Buses often assist with the border crossing process.
Cons:
- Long travel time, often more than 12 hours.
- Border crossings can be time-consuming, especially during peak times.
Onboard Experience:
Many buses offer comfortable seats, air-conditioning, and onboard Wi-Fi. Youโll also have rest stops along the way for food and restroom breaks. Be sure to book through our online search form for the best bus options.
By Train and Bus Combo: An Adventurous Overland Journey
While thereโs no direct train from Bangkok to Phnom Penh, you can take a train to the Thai border town of Aranyaprathet, cross the Poipet border, and then catch a bus or taxi to Phnom Penh. This method offers a scenic journey and is perfect for those seeking a more adventurous route.
Key Details:
- Train Departure Point: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok to Aranyaprathet.
- Train Duration: Around 6 hours.
- Price Range: Train tickets cost around 50 THB (~$1.50 USD) for third-class seats.
- From Poipet to Phnom Penh: After crossing the border, you can take a bus, shared van, or private taxi to Phnom Penh.
- Bus Duration: Around 6 to 8 hours.
- Cost: Bus tickets cost around 400 to 600 THB (~$15 to $20 USD).
Pros:
- Very affordable, especially with the cheap train option.
- Scenic train ride through rural Thailand.
- Great for adventurous travelers looking for a unique journey.
Cons:
- Time-consuming, with a total journey of more than 12 hours.
- Requires multiple transfers and a potentially complicated border crossing.
Booking Tip:
You canโt book train tickets for this route online, but buses from the border can be booked through our online search form.
By Private Taxi: For Comfort and Convenience
Hiring a private taxi is the most comfortable way to travel overland from Bangkok to Phnom Penh. A private taxi can take you directly from your hotel in Bangkok to Phnom Penh, with a stop at the Poipet-Bavet border for immigration procedures.
Key Details:
- Duration: The drive takes around 9 to 10 hours, including the border crossing.
- Price Range: A private taxi costs between 4,000 to 6,000 THB (~$120 to $180 USD), depending on the type of vehicle and service.
- Border Crossing: The taxi will take you directly to the Poipet border, where youโll handle immigration. The driver will assist with logistics.
Pros:
- Comfortable and private transportation.
- Faster than taking a bus, with fewer stops.
- Direct service from Bangkok to Phnom Penh.
Cons:
- More expensive than other travel options.
- Still requires dealing with border procedures.
Booking Tip:
Private taxis can be arranged through travel agencies or online platforms. Book your journey through our online form at the top of this page to secure the best deal.
Border Crossing at Poipet-Bavet
Most overland routes between Bangkok and Phnom Penh go through the Poipet-Bavet border. Here are a few tips to make the crossing smoother:
- Visa Requirements: Most travelers can obtain a Cambodian visa on arrival at the border. Be sure to have a passport-sized photo and $30 to $35 USD in cash for the visa fee.
- Avoid Scams: Stick to the official immigration process to avoid being overcharged by touts offering “visa services.”
- Expect Delays: Border crossings can take time, particularly during peak travel times, so plan for possible delays.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Phnom Penh
- Book in Advance: Whether youโre flying, taking the bus, or hiring a private taxi, itโs best to book your tickets early, especially during peak seasons like November to February. Use our online form at the top of this page to make your booking.
- Stay Hydrated: Overland travel can be long, so bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
- Plan for the Border: Allow extra time for the border crossing, especially if youโre traveling by bus or train.
