How to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Why visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s buzzing capital, can feel a bit hectic at first glance. It doesn’t have the same easy-going charm as Siem Reap, but it has a character all of its own.
It’s definitely not a place you want to skip! In fact, it’s probably the most important place to learn about the country’s devastating genocide and traumatic history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields will open your eyes to what humanity is capable of.
What are the 4 ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
There are 4 ways to travel the 230 kilometre (143 miles) distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, private transport and flight. The journey takes 2 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 90,000 KHR ($22).
Where to stay in Phnom Penh?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh at the bottom of this page.
Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by Bus
A cross-border trip offers a new travel experience. Why not have at least one in your itinerary? This route from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is one of the more popular ones and is also pretty straightforward.
There are fifteen bus companies operating on this route. Prices start from 90,000 KHR ($22), and the journey takes about 5 hours 45 minutes to 9 hours.
The ride includes two border stops: one at the Vietnam immigration and one at the Cambodia immigration. You’ll also get a few more breaks along the way for snacks.
Depending on your nationality, you might qualify for an e-visa. This will save you time at the border. If not, no worries. The bus staff will collect your passport and arrange the visa for you at the checkpoint. Just make sure you have around 141,000 KHR ($35) in cash ready for the visa fee.
See here to check all your options.
Bus schedule from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by Shared Minivan
A minivan ride from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh costs around 152,000 KHR ($37.50). The minivan journey takes about 7 hours, depending on traffic.
iHome Transfer operates on this route.
The experience is similar to taking a bus, but you’ll travel in a limo-style van, which usually offers more legroom and a bit more comfort than standard minivans. The trade-off is the higher price compared to regular bus tickets.
Minivan schedules from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by Flight
The advantage of taking a flight is that it only takes one hour. However, don’t forget to factor in the time needed to get to and from the airport, plus the 2 hours you’ll need to be there before your flight.
Total travel time takes 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes and costs 433,000 KHR ($105).
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Ho Chi Minh city centre to Ho Chi Minh Airport
Depending on where you’re staying in Ho Chi Minh City, a private taxi to Ho Chi Minh Airport costs between 80,000 VND ($3.10) - 300,000 VND ($11.40) when booked through Grab.
The ride takes around 30m, but it can take much longer during rush hour. It’s best to leave early to avoid missing your flight.
Step 2: Flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
A direct flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh takes about 1 hour.
Air Cambodia, Vietnam Airlines, and Qatar Airways operate a few flights daily on this route.
You can book tickets from 433,000 KHR ($105), and prices are usually lower if you book at least a few weeks in advance.
Step 3: Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre
Techo International Airport (KTI) is Cambodia’s new international hub, about 20 km south of Phnom Penh. It’s a bit farther than the old airport, so getting into the city takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your mode of transport.
The cheapest way to reach the city centre is via the Airport Express Bus, which runs daily from 05:30 to 23:30. A ticket costs 2,000 KHR ($0.40) and the bus makes four main stops:
- Canadia Park
- Royal University of Law and Economics
- Samdech Techo Hun Sen Boulevard at Bred Bank
- AEON Mean Chey, AEON Mall 3
For the most comfort, take a private transfer with rates from 63,000 KHR ($15.60). Also, here, you will find the best value by booking through ride-hailing apps like Grab, PassApp, WowNow, or Move. You can also book one beforehand through Klook or 12Go.Asia.
You can also ride a tuk-tuk if you’re after a more local way to get into the city. Visit the Phnom Penh Airport page to find out more information.
Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by Private Transport
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh.
Rates start from 734,000 KHR ($180) for a 7-seater private transfer. Divide the cost, and that’s about 105,000 KHR ($26) per person.
You’ll be picked up in Ho Chi Minh City and driven to the Moc Bai International Border Gate, where staff will assist with the immigration process. After clearing both Vietnam and Cambodia immigration, you’ll continue the journey to Phnom Penh.
This option guarantees a faster and more comfortable trip compared to regular buses, with fewer stops and more flexibility along the way.
Private Transport options from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Best places to stay in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the largest city in Cambodia, split into a number of districts that each offer something different. Here’s a quick rundown of the best districts to stay in:
- Daun Penh is the city centre and historic area of Phnom Penh. It’s where you’ll find the Royal Palace, government buildings and the most colonial architecture. Here is the place to stay if you want to be close to the top things to do in the city.
- BBK1 boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It’s close to the city centre, without being as hectic. There are plenty of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and hipsters cafes here.
- Riverside is, as the name suggests, along the river. You’ll wake up to river views and be close to plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants and street food.
Check out our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh:
White Corner Hotel - Budget Friendly
As the name suggests, White Corner Hotel has a very white colour scheme both inside and out, giving it a clean and modern feel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, providing everything that you need.
If you stay here, you’ll be located in the BBK1 neighbourhood, a very fun place to be staying. It’s also within walking distance of the must-visit S-21 prison.
- Clean and modern
- Great location
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
- Bikes are available
Private rooms start from $21 per night.
Stay Sweet Homestay - Mid Range
With only four rooms available in this intimate homestay, you’ll need to book Stay Sweet in advance if you want to guarantee yourself a room. The almost perfect rating is mainly down to the incredible owner, Panha, who provides a friendly welcome and the best recommendations.
Staying here you’ll also receive a discount at the local swimming pool and gym. The onsite restaurant is also a must-try, the food is delicious!
- Gets booked up
- Amazing owner
- Access to local swimming pool and gym
- Delicious onsite restaurant
Private rooms start from $30 per night.
TAO Riverside Residence - Treating Yourself
TAO Riverside Residence is located right on the river offering spectacular views. Most of the rooms have private balconies where you can relax after a long day of exploring and just watch the boats gliding along the river.
The rooms are mainly studio style with most rooms having their own kitchenette and seating areas. They’re beautifully designed and super modern, creating an environment you won’t want to leave. On top of that, the Wi-Fi is great!
- Amazing river views
- Private balconies
- Large and modern rooms
- Great Wi-Fi
Deluxe double studios start from $60 per night.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
What is the distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
The distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is 230 kilometre (143 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
The fastest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is by flight and takes 2 hours 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
The cheapest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is by bus with ticket costs starting from 90,000 KHR ($22).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
