Siem Reap to Phnom Penh: Private Car Transfer with Stops

Summary

Private transfer from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh with real Cambodian scenery

You’ll travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by private car or minivan with hotel pickup and a local driver who knows every shortcut and rest stop. Expect long stretches of countryside, impromptu snack breaks, and glimpses of daily life along Highway 6—a journey that feels less like transit and more like seeing Cambodia unfold around you.

What’s the experience like?

We loaded our bags into the minivan just after sunrise in Siem Reap—still a bit groggy from too much iced coffee, honestly. Our driver, Mr. Dara, gave a quiet nod and checked that we were comfortable before heading out. The city faded fast, replaced by endless green rice fields and those skinny sugar palms you see everywhere in Cambodia. I kept catching whiffs of something sweet and earthy through the cracked window—maybe burning rice husks? It’s a long drive (the sign said 314 km to Phnom Penh), but there’s something calming about watching the countryside slide by at its own pace.

Dara didn’t speak much English, but he always seemed to know when we wanted to stop for photos or just stretch our legs. Once, we pulled over near Kampong Thom because I spotted a roadside stand selling sticky rice in bamboo tubes. I tried asking for it in Khmer (Li laughed at my accent), but the vendor just grinned and handed one over anyway. Sticky fingers, warm coconut smell—worth it. We passed through small towns where everyone seemed to be outside: kids waving, someone fixing a motorbike under a tree, monks walking barefoot along the shoulder. Sometimes I’d forget we were even heading anywhere specific.

The whole day felt like a slow unraveling of Cambodia between two cities—never rushed, never exactly still either. There was one moment when the light shifted over the fields near Kampong Cham; Dara caught my eye in the mirror and pointed out some distant temple spires I would’ve missed otherwise. By the time we reached Phnom Penh (closer to six hours than five for us), I was tired but weirdly grateful for every small interruption along Highway 6. Still think about that sticky rice sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private transfer from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

• Driver picks up at hotel 7:30 am
• Travel on highway 6 through countryside
• Stop for refreshment and photos
• Pass through Kampong Thom and Kampong Cham
• Arrive Phnom Penh in afternoon
• Drop off at hotel in city

Top questions

How long does it take to drive from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?

The drive takes about 5–6 hours depending on stops and traffic conditions.

Is hotel pickup included for this private transfer?

Yes, your driver will pick you up directly from your hotel in Siem Reap.

Can we stop along the way for photos or snacks?

Yes, you can request stops for photos or refreshments during the journey.

What kind of vehicles are used for this transfer?

Vehicles include sedans like Lexus 300s and Toyota Highlanders as well as multi-passenger vans.

Does the driver speak English?

The driver understands some English; if needed, office staff can assist by phone.

Are there toilet breaks on the route?

Yes, toilet stops are included during the trip as needed.

How far is it from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by road?

The distance is approximately 314 kilometers via Highway 6.

Is lunch included on this transfer?

No meals are included but you can buy snacks at stops along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Siem Reap, all toll fees covered, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with plenty of space for luggage, toilet stops whenever you need them, and drop-off right at your hotel in Phnom Penh—all handled by a local professional driver who’ll help make sure you get there safely (even if conversation stays pretty simple).