Tuk Tuk Trails

Planning your trip from Phnom Penh to Kampot? You’re in the right place.

Whether you’re chasing riverside sunsets, pepper farms, or just a slower pace of travel, figuring out the best route is one of the first things you’ll need to get right. And honestly, not all options are created equal.

So, let’s break it down. The good, the bad, and the slightly chaotic.

Is Kampot worth visiting?

Short answer, yes, but with realistic expectations.

If you love nature, slowing down, and a peaceful countryside vibe, you’ll really enjoy Kampot. It’s quiet. It’s calm. And it’s a great escape from the chaos of city life, no matter what time of the year it is!

However, it’s not packed with endless things to do. So, if you’re visiting as a tourist, I wouldn’t stay too long.

Instead, aim for:

• 1–2 days in Kampot
• Or 1–3 days combined with Kep and maybe Rabbit Island

That way, you get the best of both worlds without feeling like you’ve run out of things to do.

That said, if you live in Cambodia, it’s the perfect weekend getaway, especially during rainy season when the islands aren’t as pleasant to visit.

How to get from Phnom Penh to Kampot?

There are quite a few ways to travel between these two cities. And yes, the same options apply when you go from kampot to phnom penh too.

However, your experience can vary a LOT depending on what you choose. So, let’s go through them properly.

Train (Best for comfort & scenery)

This is hands down my favourite option (if you’re not in a rush).

You can book a ticket through Royal Railway, and the journey takes around 3–4 hours. Prices usually range between $6–8 per person, depending on the class.

• Phnom Penh → Kampot: departs at 07:00am (once daily)
• Kampot → Phnom Penh train: departs at 14:00pm

The ride itself is slow, but that’s kind of the point. You get countryside views, fresh air, and a much more relaxed experience compared to the road.

You can also load bicycles or motorcycles onto the train, which is a big bonus if you’re travelling with one.

You can check out my full in-depth guide on traveling by train in Cambodia.

Minibus (Fast, but I will never do it again)

Okay, I’m going to be honest here. I really don’t like minibuses in Cambodia.

The road between Phnom Penh and Kampot is, to put it mildly, not great. There are potholes and mostly unpredictable drivers, and unfortunately, deadly accidents happen daily.

Minibuses tend to drive fast, overtake aggressively, and pack people in tightly. And the worst part? They often cost the same (or even more) than the train.

So yes, while the kampot to phnom penh bus or minibus is an option, it’s not one I personally recommend.

That said, if you’re short on time, it is possible. You can look on sites like BookMeBus.

Big Bus (Best balance of safety & speed)

Now this is a much better option.

A big bus is generally safer, more comfortable, and more reliable than a minibus. The journey still takes around 3 hours, but without the stress.

If you’re looking for the best kampot to phnom penh bus, my personal recommendation is Giant Ibis Transport.

Why?

• They drive responsibly
• Prices are reasonable
• You get water + a snack
• Air-conditioned (a must in Cambodia)
• Not overcrowded

So, if you want something quicker than the train but still comfortable, this is your best bet.

Private Transfer (Convenient, but pricey)

You can also book a private car or SUV.

Prices start at around $60 one way for a small car, and go up depending on the vehicle size and amount of passengers.

However, I feel a bit the same way about this as I do about minibuses.

Even if your driver is careful, you can’t control how others drive on this road. And that’s the part that makes me hesitant.

Still, if you want flexibility, hotel pick-up, and a direct journey, it’s definitely the most convenient option.

Motorcycle (Adventurous, but exhausting)

Travelling by motorcycle is definitely an option, and yes, it can feel like a bit of an adventure.

However, I’m going to be very real with you here. This road is not an easy or relaxing ride.

The conditions can be rough, with potholes, unpredictable traffic, and drivers who don’t always follow the rules. So, naturally, if you want to stay safe, you’ll need to go slow.

And if you go slow? This trip will take forever.

Trust me, we’ve done it before, and we were TIIIREEEDDD by the end of it.

That said, if you’re an experienced rider and you enjoy long-distance drives, it can still be a rewarding way to see more of the countryside. You’ve got the freedom to stop whenever you want, explore small villages, and take things at your own pace.

But overall, for most travellers, I wouldn’t recommend this as the best way to get from Phnom Penh to Kampot. There are easier (and safer) options available.

Fastest ways to travel from Kampot to Phnom Penh by public transport

If speed is your main concern, then:

👉 The big bus is your best option (around 3 hours)
👉 Minibuses can be slightly faster, but come with trade-offs

The train is slower, but far more enjoyable.

FAQ

Can you go to Kampot by plane?

No. Kampot doesn’t have an airport. So there’s no way to fly between Phnom Penh and Kampot.

Is the road from Phnom Penh to Kampot safe?

It’s, not the best. Road conditions can be rough, and driving standards vary. That’s why I personally prefer the train or a reputable big bus company like Giant Ibis.

How much does it cost to travel from Phnom Penh to Kampot?

• Train: $6–8
• Minibus: $7-12
• Bus: $8–15
• Private car: from $60

Can you do a day trip to Kampot from Phnom Penh?

Technically yes, but I wouldn’t recommend it. The journey takes a few hours each way, so it’s better to stay at least one night.

What’s the best time to travel?

Morning departures are ideal. Roads are quieter, and you avoid arriving too late in Kampot.

Final thoughts

Travelling from phnom penh to kampot is one of those journeys that’s simple on paper, but makes a big difference depending on how you do it.

If you want my honest advice? Take the train if you’ve got time. Or go with a reputable big bus if you want something quicker.

Either way, Kampot is worth experiencing, even if just for a couple of days.

And if you’ve done this trip before, I’d love to hear your experience!
Did you take the train… or brave the road?

For more Cambodia travel tips, hidden gems, and honest guides, make sure to follow along. There’s a lot more coming!