How to Get From Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Bus · Shared Minivan · Flight · Private Transport
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Phnom Penh is Cambodia's capital, at the meeting of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It lies 213 kilometres (132 miles) northwest of Ho Chi Minh City across the Vietnamese border. Flying is the quickest way, taking 2h 30m - 3h 30m. By land, the bus is the cheapest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh at $22 (89,000 KHR), with journey times of 5h 45m - 9h.
Distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh are about 213 km (132 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 240 km by road. The quickest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is by taking the flight, which takes around 2h 30m - 3h 30m.
4 ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
There are four ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh. You can choose between the bus, minivan, flight, and private transport. The journey takes 2h 30m–7h and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $22 (89,000 KHR).
incl. transfers — see itinerary
- Ho Chi Minh city centre to Ho Chi Minh Airport30m
- Flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh1h
- Phnom Penh Airport to the city centre1h
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4Ho 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 $22 (89,000 KHR), and the journey takes about 5h 45m - 9h.
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 $35 (140,000 KHR) in cash ready for the visa fee.
Bus schedule from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh by Shared Minivan
A minivan ride from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh costs around $38 (150,000 KHR). The minivan journey takes about 7h, 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.
Shared Minivan schedule from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh
Shared Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
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 2h 30m - 3h 30m and costs $105 (430,000 KHR) - $130 (525,000 KHR).
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 $3.00 (80,000 VND) 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 $105 (416,000 KHR), 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 $0.40 (2,000 KHR) 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 $16 (63,000 KHR). 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.
Flight tickets are available on Skyscanner.
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 $180 (728,000 KHR) for a 7-seater private transfer. Divide the cost, and that’s about $26 (104,000 KHR) 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 tickets are available on Bookaway.
Our favourite places to stay in Phnom Penh
- 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.
White Corner Hotel
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
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
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.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
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.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh, roughly 213 kilometres (132 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $22 (89,000 KHR). The quickest trip takes 2h 30m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh?
The distance from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh is 213 kilometres (132 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 2h 30m - 3h 30m.
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 89,000 KHR.
About the Author
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
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.
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