When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Phnom Penh?
The cheapest time to book flights to Phnom Penh is during the rainy, low season from May to October. The dry season is divided into the cool season, lasting from November to January, and the hot season, lasting from February to May. Because of the pleasant temperatures and low rainfall, the peak tourist season occurs during December and January. If you book far enough in advance, Netflights can help you find low-cost return flights during these months.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Phnom Penh?
The best time to book cheap Phnom Penh flights is two to three months before travelling, although booking as early as possible can sometimes lead to the lowest rates. Fly during the week to save money. Choosing flexible dates and looking for deals on last-minute flights can help you stay on budget even when booking close to your departure day.
Flying to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
Located 10 kilometres west of Phnom Penh’s city centre, Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is Cambodia’s largest airport.
When conducting your search, you will find that major airports, like London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast, all offer Phnom Penh flights from the United Kingdom. Although none of these airports offer direct flights, you can find flights with only one stopover at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester. Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow mostly offer two-stop itineraries, while Belfast has flights with at least three connections. Stopovers include cities like Dubai, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul. Book flights to Phnom Penh with popular airlines like Asiana Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Phnom Penh International Airport is a two-terminal airport located in a single building. One terminal is for domestic travel, and the other is for international Phnom Penh flights. Both have two floors: the ground floor and a first level. The ground floor is the arrival hall, where baggage claim, immigration and customs are found. It is also the entrance for both domestic and international departures. First floor is reserved for departing return flights. Amenities at PNH include ATMs, banks, currency exchanges, a post office, shops – including duty-free –, food, cafes, a newsstand, massages, showers, prayer rooms, a business centre and an information centre. The airport operates from 6:00am until 2:00am the following morning.
Getting to the City from Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Phnom Penh International Airport to Phnom Penh city centre is to go by taxi. You can choose to take either a public taxi at the airport or a private taxi if you book it ahead of time. For a cheaper option, opt for an autorickshaw, also known as a tuk-tuk, which can be found outside the airport gates. To go by public transport, a bus stop for Phnom Penh city bus line 03 is located on the main road, just outside the airport. Buses operate from 5:30am to 8:30pm.
Why visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh’s vibrant, busy streets and colourful homes will keep your senses busy as you begin to explore. Since the city is located near the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Rivers, a walk along the Sisowath Quay is a good start. This promenade offers a relaxing environment by the river with three kilometres of vendors, hotels, restaurants, cafes and shops to enjoy. Then visit the Phsar Thmei, a central market located inside a bright yellow, Art Deco building, to purchase local food and goods.
See more examples of beautiful classic architecture in the Khmer-style by visiting the Royal Palace, which is near the banks of a river and surrounded by neatly shaped gardens. The palace is also home to the famous, 5,000-tile Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of Emerald-Crystal Buddha. See glimpses of Phnom Penh’s French colonial past in the architecture of the General Post Office and the Commissariat.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
British nationals need a visa to travel to Phnom Penh. However, you can apply for an e-Visa online beforehand or pay a small fee for one upon arrival at PNH. If you decide on the latter option, be sure to take a passport photograph with you. The visa is valid for 30 days, starting with your date of entry. Make sure your passport is stamped and keep the departure form, as you’ll need it to leave the country. It’s advisable to have some Cambodian riel with you when you arrive, although you can also use an ATM to withdraw some cash as well.
