How to get from Phnom Penh to Battambang

Phnom Penh to Battambang is a classic overland hop across Cambodia. The easiest way is the intercity bus (most frequent), with faster—but snug—minivans, or a door-to-door private car if you want comfort and control. Self-drive is possible on mostly paved National Road 5. Use the step-by-steps below to pick and book.

At A Glance (Phnom Penh to Battambang)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Intercity Bus (Coach)	~5.5–7h (traffic/roadworks)	Most travelers, good value
🏷️ Cost: ~USD 10–18 one-way » compare buses | Trip.com picks
🚐 Minivan / Shared Taxi	~5–6.5h	Slightly faster road time
🏷️ Cost: ~USD 12–20 one-way » compare minivans
🚖 Private Car / Charter	~5–6h (direct)	Families, door-to-door
🏷️ Cost: ~USD 100–170 per vehicle » get quotes
🚘 Self-Drive (NR5)	~5–6.5h	Full flexibility & stops
🏷️ Cost: ~USD 35–60/day car rental + fuel » compare rentals

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest overall without hassle: Minivan/shared taxi (few stops, quicker loading).
• Best balance of comfort + price: Intercity bus with AC, luggage hold, predictable schedules.
• Door-to-door with kids/gear: Private car/charter—leave when you want, stop for lunch/photos.
• Most flexible & scenic detours: Self-drive—add Oudong, Kampong Chhnang, or pottery villages along NR5.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book ahead for weekends/holidays: Compare departures on 12Go or browse options on Trip.com.
• Pickups & drop-offs: Phnom Penh companies often have central offices; Battambang drop is usually near the old market or bus station—confirm exact points when booking.
• Ride-hailing: Grab operates in Phnom Penh; PassApp and inDriver are common too. For fixed intercity quotes, check GetTransfer.
• Luggage & dayrooms: If sightseeing before/after rides, stash bags via Radical Storage Phnom Penh. Battambang has fewer lockers—ask your hotel/café.
• Seat choice: In minivans, front/middle rows ride smoother than the back. On buses, left side can be cooler in afternoon sun.
• Cash & SIM: Bring small USD/riel for snacks/toilets; data helps with pickup coordination and live location sharing.

🚌 Option #1 — Intercity Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Budget-friendly AC coaches Multiple stops

• Overview: Big coaches run all day between Phnom Penh and Battambang via National Road 5. Expect 1–2 comfort stops and a central drop near the riverside/old market in Battambang.
• How to book (with price): ~USD 10–18 one-way. Compare operators, seat maps, and departure times on 12Go; curated options also appear on Trip.com.
• Pros: Luggage hold, predictable schedule. Cons: Longer than minivans in traffic; fixed rest stops.

Step-by-step: Intercity Bus

1. Choose a departure time and operator on 12Go; note the Phnom Penh pickup office and Battambang drop-off.
2. Get to the Phnom Penh bus office 20–30 minutes early using Grab/PassApp; show e-ticket and check your main bag under the coach.
3. During the ride, keep valuables with you; expect a convenience stop en route.
4. Arrive in Battambang; walk or take a short tuk-tuk to your hotel (many are within 5–10 minutes of the bus stop).

Getting to the main embarking points (Phnom Penh coach offices)

• Most operators have central Phnom Penh offices near riverside/central districts—your voucher shows the exact address.
• Battambang drops are typically close to Psar Nat (Central Market)/Old Market area.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #2 — Minivan / Shared Taxi (Quicker Road Time)

Faster Frequent departures Cozy seating

• Overview: 12–16-seat vans with AC, fewer stops, and slightly faster boarding/alighting. Space can be tighter; pack smart.
• How to book (with price): ~USD 12–20. Compare operators and pickup points on 12Go (minivans). Some listings include hotel pickup inside Phnom Penh.
• Pros: Quicker on the road; many daily slots. Cons: Less legroom; limited luggage space.

Step-by-step: Minivan / Shared Taxi

1. Pick a departure on 12Go; choose front/middle seats when possible for comfort.
2. Reach the Phnom Penh pickup point 15–20 minutes early via Grab/PassApp; confirm your name with the dispatcher.
3. Keep your daypack at your feet; larger bags may go in the back—ensure they’re labeled.
4. Arrive in Battambang; vans usually drop at a central office. Walk/tuk-tuk to your hotel.

Getting to the main embarking points (City pickup spots)

• Phnom Penh: Pickup points are spread across central districts—your booking shows the exact pin.
• Battambang: Drops near Old Market/Psar Nat or along the riverside.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚖 Option #3 — Private Car / Charter (Door-to-Door Comfort)

Door-to-door Custom schedule Higher cost

• Overview: A sedan/MPV with driver picks you up at your hotel/apartment, drives NR5 with flexible stops (lunch in Pursat/Kampong Chhnang), and drops you at your Battambang hotel.
• How to book (with price): ~USD 100–170 per vehicle depending on size/timing. Get instant quotes and vehicle options on GetTransfer. Some day-tour style transfers appear on GetYourGuide and Klook.
• Pros: Zero transfers, luggage handled, child seats on request. Cons: Costs more than bus/minivan.

Step-by-step: Private Car / Charter

1. Request quotes with pickup/drop addresses and departure time on GetTransfer; choose sedan/MPV/van by luggage count.
2. Share your live location with the driver on pickup day; keep small cash for tolls/snacks.
3. Plan a brief lunch/stretch stop along NR5; aim to arrive before dusk.

Getting to the main embarking points (Door-to-door)

• Pickup anywhere in Phnom Penh (hotel, airport, apartments).
• Drop anywhere in Battambang (Old Market, riverside, or your hotel).
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚘 Option #4 — Self-Drive (Most Flexible, For Confident Drivers)

Freedom Scenic stops Local driving norms

• Overview: NR5 is largely paved with ongoing improvements; traffic can be mixed (motos, tractors). Daytime driving is recommended; avoid night driving.
• How to book (with price): From ~USD 35–60/day (small sedan). Compare suppliers/insurance on Booking.com Car Rental. Scooters in Battambang can be handy for local exploring—see BikesBooking if available.
• Pros: Go at your own pace, add detours. Cons: Navigation and parking on your own; road etiquette varies.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive

1. Pick up your car in Phnom Penh (airport or downtown). Inspect tires/spare; confirm insurance coverage and contact numbers.
2. Set maps to NR5 → Battambang; plan fuel/coffee stops (e.g., Kampong Chhnang, Pursat).
3. Drive 5–6.5 hours depending on stops; check into your Battambang hotel and return the car if doing a one-way.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental depots & NR5)

• Phnom Penh rental counters often cluster near the airport and central boulevards.
• Many Battambang stays have on-street parking; confirm before arrival.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Phnom Penh to Battambang)

How long does the road take?
Typically 5.5–7 hours by bus or 5–6.5 hours by minivan/private car depending on traffic and stops.

Is there a train?
Passenger services on this corridor have been irregular/suspended at times. Overland road transport is the standard choice—check locally if trial services resume.

What’s the best seat on a minivan?
Front or middle rows for legroom and smoother ride; avoid the very back if you get motion sick.

Can I break the trip?
Yes—Kampong Chhnang (pottery), Pursat, or Tonle Sap-side villages make nice lunch/photo stops. With a private car you can customize timing.

Where should I stay in Battambang?
Near the riverside/Old Market for easy walks and food. Compare options on Booking.com (Battambang).

Any tours once I arrive?
Consider bamboo train, Phnom Sampov at sunset, or countryside cycling—see options on GetYourGuide or Klook.