There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Sihanoukville into a quick city adventure. From KOS, the Taxi / Tuk-tuk can get you into town in around 50 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of KOS:
- Can you legally enter Cambodia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Taxi / Tuk-tuk, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the KHR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Sihanoukville from KOS
You have two main options for getting from Sihanoukville International Airport into town:
- Taxi / Tuk-tuk: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Sihanoukville layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at KOS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Sihanoukville itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Sihanoukville
For a layover visit to Sihanoukville, we’d suggest Otres Beach and Wat Leu Temple. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KOS, you can spend time at Sihanoukville International Airport Duty-Free or try Airport General Waiting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Sihanoukville
If you make it into town, Sandan Seafood Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Khmer-Taste Restaurant.
Inside KOS
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe & Snack Bar is your main option. Local Noodle Stand works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at KOS, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KOS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sihanoukville or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Sihanoukville exploring the streets or relaxing at KOS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.