How to travel from Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh

Are you planning to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh? The journey is easy, with several options to suit your time, budget, and travel style. You can choose a budget-friendly bus ride, a quick flight, a scenic boat trip along the Mekong River, or a comfortable private car transfer - each offering its own experience.

This article takes you through:

The main transport options and how they work - Travel times, costs, and border-crossing details 

Tips for a smooth and enjoyable trip

Let Hanoi Voyages arrange the perfect cross-border journey that matches your preferences. Start your hassle-free trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh today!

Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh: Distance and travel time

• Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh distance: ~230 km (by road)

• Travel time: varies depending on the transport option - about 6–7 hours by bus or private car, 1 hour by direct flight, and 4–5 hours by speedboat along the Mekong River (see details in each option below).

Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh distance is relatively short, making this cross-border route a convenient choice. Whether you choose the comfort of a private car, the budget option of a bus, the speed of a flight, or the scenic beauty of a boat ride, you can easily make the journey in a single day.

How to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh

With the short Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh distance, you can choose from four main transport options depending on your budget and style: bus, flight, boat along the Mekong River, or private car transfer. Each option offers a unique way to experience this popular cross-border route.

Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh by plane

• Travel time: ~1 hour (direct flight) + 1–2 hours for airport procedures

• Average price: ~$200–$350 (varies by season & booking time)

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. The route is served daily with multiple departures, and the flight itself takes just about an hour. Add time for check-in, security, and immigration, and the whole journey is usually under 3 hours.

Airport transfers: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) is ~30 minutes from District 1 in Ho Chi Minh; Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is just 10 km from the city center (15–20 min by taxi/tuk-tuk).

Some popular airlines you can refer: Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, Qatar Airways, Thai AirAsia,..

Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by bus

• Travel time: about 6–7.5 hours (including border crossing)

• Price range: ~$30–$50, depending on the bus company and schedule

Travelers often search for a bus from Saigon to Phnom Penh, as most buses depart from the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker area in District 1 and arrive in central Phnom Penh.

Step 1: Book your ticket in advance

• Tickets are available online or at travel agencies near Pham Ngu Lao.

• Morning buses are best for faster border processing.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.

• Cambodia visa (e-visa printed or visa on arrival with cash + photo).

• Travel insurance and bus ticket copy.

Step 3: Boarding in Ho Chi Minh City

• Buses usually leave from Pham Ngu Lao Street in District 1.

• Store large bags in the luggage hold and keep valuables with you.

Step 4:  Border crossing (Moc Bai – Bavet)

• Exit Vietnam immigration, then enter Cambodia immigration.

• Some companies assist with visas to speed up the process.

Step 5: Arrival in Phnom Penh

• Drop-off points are usually near Riverside or Wat Phnom.

• Tuk-tuks or Grab are available for the final ride to your hotel.

Is there a direct bus to Phnom Penh?

YES - several companies operate daily from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by bus services, making it one of the most affordable and convenient ways to cross the border. Trusted companies you can refer are: Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Kumho Samco

Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh by boat

If you’re planning a river journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, there are two main ways to travel: a Mekong River cruise from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh or a speedboat transfer via Chau Doc. 

Option 1: Scenic Mekong River Cruise

A Mekong River cruise from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is more than just transportation - it’s an immersive journey into the culture and beauty of the Mekong Delta. 

Along the way, you’ll visit floating markets, rural villages, temples, and historical sites while enjoying guided excursions, regional cuisine, and comfortable onboard amenities.

• Short cruises (3–4 days): Ideal for travelers heading only to Phnom Penh.

• Extended cruises (5–8 days): Perfect for those continuing to Siem Reap, combining both Vietnam and Cambodia highlights.

• Types of cruises: Budget, deluxe, and luxury, depending on your preference.

How to get from Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh by cruise?

• Departure: Ho Chi Minh City → transfer to My Tho or Can Tho → cruise starts → Phnom Penh.

• Booking options: Either directly through cruise operators’ websites or more commonly via travel agencies for full-service arrangements.

Recommended Mekong river cruise from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh:

• Cruise On The Toum Tiou I

• Cruise on the Indochine I, II

• Cruise on the Lan Diep

• Cruise on the Jahan

You can also refer: Top 7 best Mekong river cruises for your trip

Option 2: Speedboat via Chau Doc

For a quicker and more budget-friendly way, you can take a speedboat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh.

Step 1: Ho Chi Minh City → Chau Doc

• Travel by bus or private car (~6–7 hours).

• Chau Doc is the main departure point for speedboats.

Step 2: Chau Doc → Phnom Penh by speedboat

• The ride takes ~4–5 hours, passing floating houses, riverbanks, and rural life.

• Immigration is done at the river border checkpoint (bring passport, visa/e-visa, and a photo).

• Boats like Hang Chau Express are reliable and comfortable.

Note: Schedules depend on river conditions, so confirm with your provider in advance.

With Hanoi Voyages, we can arrange your Mekong River cruise from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh as part of a tailored itinerary, ensuring a smooth transfer, comfortable travel, and unforgettable river journey.

Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh by private car

• Travel time: ~6–7 hours (depending on traffic and border crossing)

• Cost: varies from ~$200–$300 per car (one way), depending on vehicle type and service provider

Traveling by private car is one of the most comfortable and flexible ways to go from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. Unlike buses or scheduled flights, a private transfer allows you to travel at your own pace, stop along the way, and enjoy more privacy.

Your driver will pick you up directly at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh, then take you to the Moc Bai border in about 2–3 hours. 

After completing exit procedures in Vietnam and entry at Bavet, Cambodia, you’ll continue the journey for another 3–4 hours before arriving right at your hotel in Phnom Penh

At Hanoi Voyages, we design tailor-made Vietnam–Cambodia tours that combine the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the scenic Mekong River, and the cultural treasures of Phnom Penh and beyond.

>>> CHOOSE AN IDEA, and we will plan trip together <<<

	Vietnam Cambodia Trip 18 Days - Adventure and Cruise A different journey with this unique itinerary : nature, local encounters, and cruises on Ha Long Bay and the Mekong.
	Charm and mysteries between Vietnam and Cambodia Luxury, charm and culture: discover Cambodia's gems with ethnic groups, rice fields and cruises in a unique and enchanting experience.
	Vietnam & Cambodia in 21 days – Luxury tour Luxury journey through Vietnam and Cambodia with high-end stays, private cruises, and exclusive experiences.

Beyond our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh: What’s the best way to travel?

Each travel option from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh suits different types of travelers:

• Bus – Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers.

• Plane – Perfect for tourists on a short holiday who value time.

• Boat (via Chau Doc) – Great for adventure travelers and culture lovers.

• Private Car – Best for family trips, small groups, or comfort-seeking tourists.

Travel documents for border crossing in Phnom Penh

When traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, crossing the Vietnam–Cambodia border requires proper documentation: passport, visa, travel insurance,... Make sure you prepare the following:

• Valid passport – must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

• Visa for Cambodia 

• E-visa: Apply online in advance and print it out.

• Visa on arrival: Available at the border (bring one passport photo + USD cash for the fee).

• Exemptions: Citizens of certain ASEAN countries can enter visa-free for a limited period.

• Travel insurance – recommended and occasionally checked at the border.

• Customs declaration form – provided at the border for items subject to declaration.

Check more details: 

• Vietnam visa formalities

• Cambodia visa formalities

Must-see attractions to explore in Phnom Penh

If you’ve just arrived from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital welcomes you with a mix of history, culture, and vibrant local life. Here are the top attractions you shouldn’t miss

Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda A dazzling complex showcasing Khmer architecture and the sacred Emerald Buddha.	Independence Monument A national symbol commemorating Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule.	Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum A powerful memorial to Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge.

Wat Phnom  The symbolic hilltop temple at the heart of the city.	Central Market (Phsar Thmei)   Famous for its Art Deco architecture and bustling stalls.	National Museum of Cambodia  Home to priceless Khmer art, statues, and historical treasures.

You can read more options: Traveling to Cambodia: 9 must-see attractions for travelers

FINAL THOUGHTS:

So, how to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh? The answer depends on your travel style. If you’re on a budget, the direct bus is the most affordable choice. If you want speed and comfort, flights are the best option. For a scenic and cultural experience, a Mekong River cruise or speedboat via Chau Doc adds adventure to your journey. And if you value privacy and flexibility, a private car transfer is ideal.

Whichever option you choose, Hanoi Voyages can help you plan and arrange the most suitable route, ensuring your cross-border trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is smooth, comfortable, and memorable. CONTACT US NOW!