2. Taxi to Phnom Penh
3. Flights to Phnom Penh
4. Bus+Boat to Ph.Penh
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From Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by bus, van, taxi or plane.
This is one of the most popular overland routes in Southeast Asia, from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Phnom Penh – the capital of Cambodia. Phnom Penh is the transportation hub of Cambodia and there are tourist buses, minibuses, private taxis and direct flights between Saigon and this city. There is no railway from Ho Chi Minh City, so you have to forget about the train journey and use the tourist bus instead. The tourist bus is the most popular option for travelers.
Those who don’t care about the travel budget can book a private car, but it is significantly more expensive than a bus transfer, the land route goes through the Moc Bai – Bavet border crossing. An alternative option is also a boat trip from the city of Chau Doc in southern Vietnam, which can be reached by bus from Saigon. The road travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, Cambodia is approximately 230 km via the Moc Bai – Bavet crossing.
Direct flights is the most fastest option of getting to Phnom Penh.
A bus transfer is a low-cost transport option and bus tickets to Phnom Penh from Ho Chi Minh City range from $21-40/per person and the journey takes approximately 5.5-7 hours depending on the type of bus or minibus and the transport company. The connections are operated by several companies, among the well-known ones we can name, for example, Long Phuong Cambodia, Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Duc Duong Bus, Vet Air Bus Express, Kumho Samco or Virak Buntham.
Most of these companies offer modern and comfortable buses. You will go through the Moc Bai – Bavet border crossing and online visa to Cambodia are accepted at this crossing, which can be easily processed online in advance, or you can purchase visas at the border crossing. Find out in advance how it is with the current visa conditions at this place. Saigon to Phnom Penh bus tickets can also be easily searched and purchased in advance online on the platforms listed below. Always read all additional information about the bus service to Phnom Penh before booking tickets.
Bus tickets from Saigon to Phnom Penh start at $21-25/pp.
Another way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is to use a direct flight operated by Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air or Qatar Airways. It is the fastest and most convenient transportation option and takes about 1 hour and ticket prices range from $70-200/per person. However, the flight schedule between Phnom Penh and Saigon is somewhat limited and many planes do not fly. Flights are operated from Tan Son Nhat Airport and planes arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport, which is a short distance from the city center.
If you would like to book your private car/taxi from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, that is also possible. However, it is the most expensive transport option and is therefore not suitable for low-cost travelers. Private car/taxi transfers from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh take approximately 6 hours and prices range from $140-460 per full car. Therefore, if you are traveling with more people, you can divide the prices among individual people.
You can also travel by bus + boat to Phnom Penh via Chau Doc.
The last option is to travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc and from there by boat to Phnom Penh. This transfer can be a very interesting addition to the trip, you will see part of southern Vietnam and Cambodia from a completely different perspective than from the road. However, it is more suitable for those who have more time to travel. Tickets for all the above connections to Phnom Penh and Vietnam can be booked in advance online.
Always read all instructions regarding the journey itself, departure and arrival at the final destination before ordering tickets. Once in Phnom Penh, you have various options to travel further, including by bus or plane to Sihanoukville, Siem Reap or venture eastward to Mondulkiri by bus or private car.
| Transfer Mode – Saigon to Phnom Penh: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus / Van | 5-7 hours | $21-40/pp |
| Direct Flight | 1 hour | $70-170/pp |
| Private Car | 6 hours | $140-460/car |
| Bus + Boat (via Chau Doc) | 13 hours | $32-75/pp |
How do I get from Saigon to Phnom Penh?
1. BUS from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
Most solo travelers in Vietnam will use a tourist bus to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The bus is a cheap option of transport and the offer includes a number of relatively comfortable, modern and well-maintained buses from several proven companies, seater or sleeper buses. Companies operating buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh are: Long Phuong Cambodia, Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Duc Duong Bus, Vet Air Bus Express, The Sinh Tourist, Kumho Samco, Virak Buntham, Thero Express, Airbus, Techbus VN.
These buses can depart from various locations and stops in Saigon, such as several locations from the famous Pham Ngu Lao Long Phuong Street, which is easily accessible from the center. You will always see this information about departures and arrivals before ordering bus tickets, also read whether companies accept mobile tickets as e-tickets or whether it is necessary to print them, you will see everything written out.
Ticket prices from Saigon to Phnom Penh range from $21-40/pp and the journey time is about 5.5-7 hours, you will go through the Moc Bai – Bavet border crossing, which is the largest crossing between southern Vietnam and Cambodia. The bus is the cheapest option of transportation from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh and the transportation is relatively easy and the better buses offer good comfort for an adequate price.
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- Book and buy bus tickets from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜
- You will receive your e-ticket to Phnom Penh by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus in Saigon
2. PRIVATE CAR / TAXI from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
Would you like to use a private taxi/car with driver from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh? Yes, this transport option to Cambodia is also possible, it is of course the most expensive transport option to Phnom Penh from Saigon. Private car booking and transfer from Saigon to Phnom Penh costs around $140-460/car and takes around 6 hours.
One of the private companies that offers these transfers is SIMA Car. Some of the cars that appear in the menu are of different types, e.g. SUV, Premium Van for 5 passengers, or minibus / limousine for up to 11 passengers. It can therefore be a suitable option for those who travel in a group of travelers, so you need to budget well how much the price for the transfer will cost you, sometimes it can even pay off.
The advantage of using a private taxi is, of course, the option of choosing the exact place of departure and arrival and you don’t have to worry about anything else. You can find and book a private car from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh online even in advance. Again, read all instructions about this transfer option.
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3. FLIGHT from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
A direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is of course the fastest and most convenient option of transportation between these cities. However, the flight schedule of direct flights is somewhat limited and some flights may be more expensive. On average, flight prices from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, Cambodia range from $70-200/per person, depending on the type of company and class on the plane.
That being said, direct flight is the fastest way to get to Phnom Penh, it takes around 1 hour, if we don’t include transfers to and from the airport, it could be up to 4 hours in total with all the procedures at the airport. Some airlines that offer air connections to Phnom Penh are Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air or Qatar Airways. These flights are mainly operated by Cambodia Angkor Air.
Sometimes there are also flights with a transfer on offer, but this is probably not worth using for such a short flight distance. Flights are operated from Tan Son Nhat Airport in Saigon and planes arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport. From Phnom Penh airport, you can then get to the city center by bus, private car or Tuk-tuk. All flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh can be found and easily booked online on the platforms below.
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- Book and buy your flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
4. BUS + BOAT from Saigon to Phnom Penh (via Chau Doc)
A) Bus (or taxi) from Saigon to Chau Doc
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- it is about 210 km by road from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc
- travel by tourist bus from Saigon to Chau Doc takes about 6 hours
- travel by bus from Saigon to Chau Doc costs about $7-10/pp
- bus company to Chau Doc from Saigon: Futabus (Phuong Trang), Hue Nghia
B) Boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh
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- from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh you can travel by boat via Mekong river
- travel by boat to Phnom Penh from Chau Doc takes about 5 hours
- boat tickets to Phnom Penh cost about $25-65/pp
- boats to Phnom Penh from Chau Doc: Mandarin Cruises, Hang Chau Tourist
- read this article: How to get to Phnom Penh from Chau Doc?
5. TRAIN from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- No, there is not a train connection from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. There are some plans to build a new railway to Phnom Penh in the future. There is railway in Cambodia, you can travel by train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, Kampot, Kep or Battambang + Poipet. Read also this article: Transportation in Cambodia.
6. Book a Tour + Activity / Tickets in Phnom Penh
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- You can also search and book a tour or tickets for tourist attractions in Phnom Penh
- It is possible to book various types of exploring tours (city tour, food tour, bicycle tour…)
- These private exploring tours in Phnom Penh by local tour guides from Cambodia
- You can also book private airports transfer from Phnom Penh Airport
- There are also various private tours and travel activities in Vietnam
BOOK a PRIVATE TOUR in Phnom Penh ➜
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh:
1. What is the travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- Travel by bus/minivan from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh takes about 5-7 hours.
- Travel by plane from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh takes about 1 hour (direct flight).
- Travel by private car from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh takes about 6 hours.
- Travel by bus+boat from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh (via Chau Doc) takes about 13 hours.
2. What is the price of transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- Transfer by bus/minivan from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh costs about $21-40/pp.
- Transfer by private car from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh costs about $140-460/car.
- Transfer by plane from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh costs about $70-170/pp (direct flight).
- Transfer by bus + boat from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh (via Chau Doc) costs about $32-75/pp.
3. How to book bus tickets or flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- You can book tickets from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh on 12go.asia ➜ or Baolau ➜.
- You can book also another travel route, e.g. Ho Chi Minh to Siem Reap, Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville…
4. What is the travel distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- Travel distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is about 230 km by bus/minivan and about 200 km by plane.
5. What is the best option of transport from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
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- The best and fastest way how to get from Saigon to Phnom Penh is to travel by plane (direct flights), but it is not so cheap, but also some minivans are not bad, they are cheap, comfortable and fast.
6. What is the cheapest way of transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
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- The most cheapest way for low-cost travelers is to travel by tourist bus. The most cheapest bus ticket from Saigon to Phnom Penh in Cambodia costs about $21-25/pp.
7. How to get from Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City?
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- From Phnom Penh Airport to Phnom Penh City you can travel by city bus, airport express bus (KK Star), shuttle train or tuk tuk. The most cheapest way is to travel by city bus (about 0.50 USD). Phnom Penh City center is about 10 km from the airport. More information you can check on the offical website of Phnom Penh Airport.
8. Is it possible to travel by train from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?
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- No, it is not possible to travel by train from Saigon to Phnom Penh, there is no railway between these cities.
9. Where do I get E-visa to Cambodia?
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- You can get your E-visa to Cambodia easily online at the official goverment website: www.evisa.gov.kh.
10. Where to go and travel from Phnom Penh?
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- You can travel to Siem Reap (Angkor Wat Temple Complex) – there are various tourist buses and vans or direct flights, or you can visit some beaches in Sihanoukville (+Koh Rong), there are buses/vans and flights to Sihanoukville and ferries/boats from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong.
11. How can I travel around Phnom Penh?
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- Traveling around Phnom Penh is easy and convenient. You can use various transportation options such as tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbike taxis (known as „motodops“). There are also app-based ride-hailing services available, such as Grab and PassApp.
12. Is it safe to visit Phnom Penh?
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- Phnom Penh is generally a safe city to visit, but like any other urban area, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Exercise common safety practices such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and using reliable transportation. It’s also advisable to follow the guidance of local authorities and stay informed about any travel advisories or safety alerts before your visit.
13. What is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?
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- The best time to visit Phnom Penh is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is more comfortable with lower humidity and less rainfall. It’s easier to explore the city’s attractions and enjoy outdoor activities without excessive heat or frequent downpours. However, it’s worth noting that Phnom Penh can be visited year-round, and even during the wet season (May to October), the rain showers are usually short-lived and shouldn’t hinder your sightseeing plans.
14. How to travel solo in Cambodia?
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- Solo travel in Cambodia offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this Southeast Asian gem. Navigate Cambodia solo by securing comfortable accommodations, exploring diverse transportation options, engaging in local activities, and fostering connections with fellow travelers for an enriching and memorable journey through the Kingdom of Wonder.
15. What are the most interesting things or facts about Cambodia?
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- Cambodia, a country steeped in history and resilience, is best known for the magnificent Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece and the world’s largest religious monument. Beyond its iconic temples, Cambodia offers vibrant floating markets, where boats laden with colorful produce create a lively spectacle. Cambodia seamlessly intertwines ancient traditions with modern vitality, making it a captivating destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Read this article: 15 Interesting Things about Cambodia.
16. What is the weather in Cambodia and what to expect?
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- In Cambodia, the weather is characterized by a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from November to April, brings lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Conversely, the wet season, from May to October, sees heavier rainfall and higher humidity. It’s important to be prepared for sudden downpours during this time, and some areas may experience flooding. Checking local forecasts is advisable for more accurate and timely information on the weather in Cambodia.
17. Is traveling and exploring Cambodia cheap or expensive?
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- Cambodia’s affordability extends to various aspects of travel, including cultural activities, scenic treks, and beach retreats. Engaging with friendly locals and enjoying the diverse culinary scene are enriching experiences that come at reasonable prices. While providing budget-friendly options, it’s advisable to have a financial buffer for unexpected expenses to ensure a seamless and stress-free journey. Read this article: Prices in Cambodia.
18. What is the currency of Cambodia and how to exchange money?
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- Cambodia’s official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used in various transactions. The exchange rate is approximately around 4,000 KHR for 1 USD. Travelers can exchange money at banks or currency exchange booths, with banks typically providing better rates, albeit having more limited operating hours. While credit cards are accepted in some upscale establishments and restaurants, cash remains the preferred form of payment, especially in more rural regions. Therefore, it’s recommended for visitors to carry both US Dollars and Cambodian Riel, especially when venturing into less touristy areas.
19. What is the cuisine in Cambodia and what to expect?
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- Cambodian cuisine offers a delightful journey of flavors, blending simplicity with a diverse range of fresh ingredients. From iconic dishes like „Amok“ to the unique use of herbs and spices, the culinary landscape reflects a rich cultural tapestry. With a focus on balance and an appreciation for local traditions, Cambodian cuisine provides a unique and flavorful experience for those exploring its diverse gastronomic offerings.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Phnom Penh ➜
🚍 Bus Schedule / Timetable – Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh + Bus Tickets:
Bus Schedule - Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh | Departs in Ho Chi Minh | Arrival in Phnom Penh | Book Bus Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
Phuong Heng | 7:00 | 13:00 | |
Phuong Heng | 8:30 | 14:30 | |
Phuong Heng | 13:00 | 19:00 | |
Phuong Heng | 15:30 | 21:30 | |
Vet Air Bus | 08:45 | 15:00 | |
Techbus VN | 6:30 | 12:30 | |
Techbus VN | 7:00 | 13:00 | |
Techbus VN | 8:15 | 14:15 | |
Techbus VN | 12:30 | 18:30 | |
Airbus | 08:45 | 15:00 | |
Khai Nam | 4:30 | 11:30 | |
Khai Nam | 5:30 | 12:30 | |
Khai Nam | 7:00 | 14:00 | |
Khai Nam | 9:00 | 16:00 | |
Khai Nam | 10:30 | 17:30 | |
Khai Nam | 12:00 | 19:00 | |
Khai Nam | 13:30 | 20:30 | |
Khai Nam | 14:30 | 21:30 | |
Khai Nam | 15:30 | 22:30 | |
Long Phuong | 7:00 | 14:00 | |
Long Phuong | 11:00 | 18:00 | |
Long Phuong | 15:00 | 22:00 | |
Kumho Samco | 8:30 | 14:30 | |
Kumho Samco | 11:00 | 17:00 | |
Giant Ibis | 08:00 | 14:30 | |
Giant Ibis | 09:45 | 16:15 | |
Virak Buntham | 07:00 | 13:30 | |
Virak Buntham | 11:00 | 18:00 | |
Virak Buntham | 15:00 | 21:00 |
4 Ways of Transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh:
| 1. BUS from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh | |
|---|---|
| Transport Options | Bus |
| Travel Time | About 5.5-7 hours |
| Price | About $21-40 per person |
| Bus Companies | Long Phuong Cambodia, Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Kumho Samco… |
| 2. PRIVATE TAXI/CAR from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh | |
| Transport Options | Private Car, SUV, Minivan |
| Travel Time | About 6 hours |
| Price | About $140-460 / vehicle |
| Company | Sima Car |
| 3. FLIGHT from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh | |
| Transport Options | Flight |
| Airlines | VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, Qatar Airways |
| Price | About $70-200/pp for one-way low-cost flight |
| Flight Time | About 1 hour |
| Airports | Tan Son Nhat Airport, Phnom Penh International Airport |
| 4. BUS + BOAT from Saigon to Phnom Penh (via Chau Doc) | |
| A) Bus (or taxi) from Saigon to Chau Doc | |
| Transport Options | Bus, Taxi |
| Travel Distance | About 210 km |
| Travel Time | About 6 hours |
| Price | About $7-10 per person |
| Bus Company | Futabus (Phuong Trang), Hue Nghia |
| B) Boat from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh | |
| Transport Options | Boat |
| Travel Time | About 5 hours |
| Price | About $25-65 per person |
| Boat Companies | Mandarin Cruises, Hang Chau Tourist |
BOOK your HOTEL in Phnom Penh ➜
🎫 Book your tickets / taxi from Saigon to Phnom Penh + Schedule:
(You can change your departure, arrival, e.g. Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne, Phnom Penh to Siem Reap…)