How to get from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Phnom Penh

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh? Many adventurers planning a thrilling Vietnam-Cambodia trip often ask how to make this exciting transition. In this article, we’ll unveil a variety of exhilarating transport options that will take you on this remarkable adventure. Get ready to explore and discover the best ways to travel between these two incredible cities!

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh: Distance and Travel time

The distance between Vietnam's largest city and Cambodia's capital is only about 230 kilometers, making Cambodia a popular next destination for many travelers after visiting Vietnam. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can travel to Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh City by land, air, or water.

Flight is undoubtedly the quickest way to reach Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh City, with a travel time of only 50 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes for a direct flight. 

The bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and the amount of time needed for border gate procedures. You can also opt for a private car or a taxi, which also takes the same amount of travel time. 

As for traveling by water to Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh City, there are two options to consider: speedboat or river cruise. For a speedboat, you will need to get to Chau Doc from Ho Chi Minh City first (by private car, taxi, or bus), then take the speedboat for about 6 hours to finally reach the capital of Cambodia. Travel time for a river cruise along the Mekong River varies depending on the cruise and itinerary chosen. The shortest time for this transport option is 4 days, 3 nights.

How to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh

If you’re planning a trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, there are several convenient transport options available to suit your needs and preferences. Here are five transport options to consider for your journey:

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by Plane

Duration: 1 hour

The plane provides a good balance between travel time and comfort, featuring a short travel duration (approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes for a direct flight) and a comfort level that depends on the airline and the chosen seat class. There are many departures daily from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to Phnom Penh International Airport operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Cambodia Angkor Air to ensure a comfortable journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh.

A ticket for a round trip costs around $150-$220 and can be booked easily online through airlines’ websites. 

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by Bus

Duration: 6-8 hours

Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Phnom Penh Sorya are among the most well-known bus companies connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. They all travel directly, so you don't need to change buses after crossing the border. Additionally, at the border, their staff will assist you in completing the exit process from Vietnam and your entry into Cambodia. While these steps can take considerable time, it is much easier than handling it alone without the assistance of the bus staff.

A one-way ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh costs between $25 and $35. Daytime buses take approximately 6 hours, while night buses require about 10 hours. 

This option is perfect for travelers on a tight budget or wanting to admire the scenery.

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by Private Car or Taxi

Duration: 6-8 hours

You can easily book a private car or taxi to the Moc Bai International Border Gate, which is the nearest Vietnam-Cambodia border from Ho Chi Minh City. Once the arrival procedure is done, the journey continues as you will spend another 4 hours on the road to finally reach your destination. While this transport option allows you to travel at your own pace, with more comfort and privacy, it also comes with certain drawbacks. Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by taxi or private car costs more than by plane, not to mention that you will need to take care of the long and sometimes troublesome procedure by yourself.

With the same amount of travel time as the bus, this option is for someone who prioritizes privacy and a flexible schedule over prices and time.

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by Speedboat

Duration: around 6 hours

Traveling by speedboat to Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh offers a balance of adventure and acceptable travel time. Choosing the speedboat as your travel method, you will need to get to Chau Doc the day before, as the boat departs around 7:30 A.M. Depending on weather conditions and procedures,  you will arrive in Phnom Penh at around 1 or 2 P.M. 
 

During the ride, passengers can enjoy the scenery of the Mekong River and its lively banks. Some popular speedboat companies for this route are Hang Chau Tourist, Blue Cruiser, and Mandarin Cruise. While all of these companies guarantee a comfortable and safe ride, providing amenities such as toilets, life jackets, and a seating area for sightseeing on a boat, Hang Chau Tourist offers the best value for the price.

For those looking for a quick yet fascinating adventure on the Mekong River on their way from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, traveling by speedboat is a perfect choice. 

Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by River cruise

Duration: Varies depending on the chosen cruise and itinerary

A river cruise is certainly the best way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. This option is perfect for those who want to explore the splendor of the Mekong River to the fullest, all while unwinding and enjoying excellent services.

Among prestigious cruise companies that operate the Ho Chi Minh City-Phnom Penh route are Heritage Line Jayavarman, Heritage Line The Jahan, Mekong Eyes Explorer Cruise, Mekong Navigator, and Victoria Mekong Cruise. A 4-day, 3-night cruise is the shortest option for this route. If you see a 3-day, 2-night cruise, there is a high chance you will travel by speedboat to reach Phnom Penh.

Prices for a cruise on the Mekong River to get to Phnom Penh depend on your budget and preference. 

Travel Tips for a hassle-free trip

Have your passport and visa ready at all times. If you are traveling by border crossing, make sure to check the border crossing rules.

Always book in advance to ensure availability and avoid any disappointment, especially during the high season.

Bring some cash with you, in case the officers at the Cambodia border gate might ask for some “fees”. Cambodia uses the Riel, but USD is widely accepted, so be prepared with both currencies.

Keep in mind that speedboats are subject to weather conditions. The journey is smoother during dry seasons, but rough waters during the rainy season might cause delays or disruptions.

We hope that you have found your answer to “How to get to Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh City” after a little help from us. If you need more travel advice, whether it be your trip to Vietnam or to Cambodia, or even both, don’t hesitate to CONTACT US NOW at: info@authentikvietnam.com and +84 (0) 9 12 12 10 91 on WhatsApp. We will reach back to you as soon as possible.

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