Getting around Cambodia is easier than you might think. The major cities are well connected by paved roads, comfortable buses, and frequent domestic flights. In the city, Grab has revolutionized daily mobility. The only real challenge is the first trip from the airport — where scams involving unofficial cars are common.

In the city: Grab first

Grab is the dominant ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia. In Cambodia, it operates in the three major cities (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville) and offers tuk-tuks, motos, and cars with fixed prices calculated in advance. It is by far the most transparent option: no negotiation, no surprises. Download the app before you arrive.

📱 Grab Fixed price, app required
Phnom Penh, SR, Sihanouk
🛺 Tuk-tuk 2–5 USD per ride
10–20 USD/day
🏍 Moto-dop 1–3 USD per ride
Less comfortable
🚕 Taxi Rare, expensive
Mostly at the airport

The traditional tuk-tuk

For areas outside of Grab or for drivers who do not use it, the classic tuk-tuk with negotiation remains common. A few rules: ask for the price before getting in, agree on the amount in either Cambodian riel or dollars (both work), and do not get in if you haven’t reached an agreement. For day trips (like Angkor, for example), negotiate a "full day" rate that includes waiting times between sites. See our complete tuk-tuk ride guide for detailed rates.

The moto-dop

A motorcycle taxi driven by a driver, the moto-dop is faster than a tuk-tuk in heavy traffic but less comfortable and less suitable for luggage. It is reserved for short trips and solo travelers. Prices are similar to tuk-tuks, slightly lower.

Between cities

For trips between major cities, there are four main options depending on budget, comfort, and available time. See our complete intercity travel guide for detailed prices and schedules.

🚌 VIP Bus 8–15 USD
Comfortable, punctual
✈️ Domestic Flight 40–120 USD
45 min Phnom Penh–SR
🚤 Speed Boat 35–50 USD
Scenic, long
🚐 Shared Van 10–20 USD
Fast but cramped

Our recommendation: the VIP bus

For most trips, the VIP bus offers the best value for money. Companies like Giant Ibis and Mekong Express provide air-conditioned buses, punctual service, reclining seats, and WiFi. Book online in advance during high season — buses fill up quickly.

From the airport: beware of scams

Classic airport scam: "Official" drivers offer their services at the arrivals exit at prices 3 to 5 times higher than normal. In Phnom Penh, the normal price to reach the city center is 9-12 USD by tuk-tuk or 7-10 USD by Grab. In Siem Reap, it’s 5-8 USD. Never follow someone who approaches you inside the terminal.

The best option from Phnom Penh (and Siem Reap) airport: exit the terminal, connect to the airport's free WiFi, and order a Grab. The pick-up is done on the outside sidewalk — Grab drivers know the pick-up area.

Scooter or car rental

Scooter rental is popular in Kampot, Kep, and the islands, where distances are short and traffic is calmer. Expect to pay 5–10 USD/day for an automatic scooter. An international driving permit is recommended (even if rarely checked). For long distances, renting a car with a driver (30–60 USD/day) is often more practical than driving yourself on sometimes unpredictable roads.

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