Travel by Bus: Affordable & Convenient
Traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is one of the most popular, affordable, and efficient options — ideal for budget-conscious travelers and backpackers. The journey typically takes 6–7 hours, including border crossing at Moc Bai (Vietnam) – Bavet (Cambodia).
🚌 VET Express (by Vireak Buntham)
VET Express is a leading premium cross-border bus service known for its comfort, punctuality, and onboard amenities.
Why choose VET Express?
- Modern, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats
- Free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and onboard restrooms
- Snacks, water, and entertainment provided
- First Class option: Spacious 2+1 layout, extra legroom
- Attentive staff onboard to assist during the border process
Schedule: 10–13 daily departures between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Tickets:
- Eco Class: From $28 USD
- First Class: From $35 USD
Booking: Online at vetbustransport.com or via their official Facebook page
🚌 MEKOLIMO Limousine Bus
For a more exclusive ride, MEKOLIMO offers luxury limousine buses with fewer passengers and enhanced comfort.
Vehicle Options:
- 9-seat VIP Massage Limousine (Hyundai Solati)
- 19-seat Thaco Cruiser with VIP seating
Why choose MEKOLIMO?
- Private, quiet, and punctual service
- Free snacks and bottled water
- Clean interiors with limited seating for more space
Ticket Prices:
- From ₫600,000 to ₫700,000 (~€24–28 / $24–28 USD)
Route:
- Depart: 189 Đào Duy Từ, District 10, HCMC
- Arrive: 343 Preah Sihanouk Blvd, Phnom Penh
Booking: Via mekolimo.com, app, or hotline
Departures: 7 daily trips with reliable schedules
Tip: Both services handle border procedures smoothly. Just bring your passport, visa (if required), and some USD or Cambodian riel for possible fees.
Border Crossing: What You Need to Know
When traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, the most common and convenient crossing point is:
📍 Moc Bai (Vietnam) → Bavet (Cambodia)
- Distance from HCMC: ~70 km
- Used by all major bus companies
- Immigration and customs are completed directly at the border
🛂 Visa Requirements for French and EU Citizens
Both eVisas and Visas on Arrival are accepted at the Bavet land border — making the process straightforward and flexible.
✅ Option 1: Cambodian eVisa
- Apply online at evisa.gov.kh
- Fee: ~$36 USD (including processing)
- Processing time: Usually within 3 business days
- Valid at Bavet crossing (ensure your printout is ready)
✅ Option 2: Visa on Arrival
- Fee: ~$30 USD
- Processing time: Around 10–15 minutes
- What you need:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- 1 passport photo (can be taken on-site for a small fee if needed)
- USD cash for payment
Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
If you’re short on time or prefer comfort, flying is the fastest and easiest way to travel between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.
✈️ Airlines Offering Direct Flights
Several carriers operate daily non-stop flights:
- Vietnam Airlines
- Cambodia Angkor Air
- Lanmei Airlines
- Sky Angkor Airlines
- Flight duration: ~1 hour
- Fares: From €70–€140 (round-trip), depending on season and booking window
✅ Why Choose to Fly?
- Quick & hassle-free — save hours compared to road travel
- Perfect for business travelers or short itineraries
- Convenient arrival — Phnom Penh International Airport is only ~10 km from the city center
- Frequent flights — multiple departures daily
🛂 Visa Information at Phnom Penh Airport
Both eVisa and Visa on Arrival are accepted at Phnom Penh International Airport, making entry easy for French and EU travelers:
- eVisa: Apply in advance at evisa.gov.kh
- Visa on Arrival: ~$30 USD + passport photo
💡 Tip: Book early to secure the best airfare, especially during holidays or peak seasons.
Scenic River Route: Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh via the Mekong Delta
Looking for a unique and immersive travel experience? Journeying to Phnom Penh via the Mekong Delta and speedboat is a scenic alternative that lets you explore Vietnam’s lush southern landscapes before entering Cambodia by river.
🚤 Step 1: Ho Chi Minh City → Châu Đốc (Mekong Delta)
- Travel by bus or private car
- Duration: ~6 hours
- Châu Đốc is a charming riverside town near the Cambodian border, known for floating villages and Cham culture.
🛏️ Optional: Spend a night in Châu Đốc for a more relaxed journey
🚤 Step 2: Châu Đốc → Phnom Penh by Speedboat
- Travel time: 5–6 hours
- Cruise along the Mekong River with views of riverside life, fishing boats, and floating houses.
Popular Operators:
- Hang Chau Tourist
- Victoria Speedboat (offered by Victoria Hotel Châu Đốc)
🛂 Border crossing assistance is included onboard
📍 Border Checkpoint: Vĩnh Xương (Vietnam) → Kaam Samnor (Cambodia)
⚠️ Important Visa Notes:
- Visa on Arrival is available at the river checkpoint
- Cost: ~$30 USD
- Bring: 1 passport photo + cash in USD
- ❌ eVisas are NOT accepted at this river border crossing
✅ Why Choose the River Route?
- Combine slow travel with sightseeing
- A more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience
- Great for travelers who want to explore the Mekong Delta along the way
💡 Tip: Book your speedboat in advance, especially in peak season or if traveling with luggage.
Summary: Best Way to Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh
There are three main ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, each suited to different travel styles and budgets.
By Bus
The bus journey takes around 6 to 7 hours, including immigration procedures at the Moc Bai – Bavet border. Prices range from $25 to $35. This is the most affordable option and is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind overland travel. Premium services like VET Express and MEKOLIMO offer extra comfort with reclining seats, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi.
By Flight
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way. The flight takes about 1 hour, with fares typically ranging from €70 to €140 for a round-trip. It’s a great choice if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer maximum comfort. Phnom Penh International Airport is located close to the city center, which makes transfers quick and easy.
By Boat via the Mekong Delta
This scenic route involves traveling by land to Châu Đốc in the Mekong Delta (about 6 hours), then continuing by speedboat to Phnom Penh (5–6 hours). Total travel time is around 11 to 12 hours, and the cost is approximately $35 to $55. It’s the best option if you’re looking for a unique, cultural journey through Vietnam’s river life.
Recommendation:
- If you want the fastest and most hassle-free option, choose the flight.
- If you’re on a budget, the bus is your best bet.
- If you’re seeking a scenic and memorable adventure, go with the river route via Châu Đốc.
Whatever your choice, make sure your visa type matches the border checkpoint you’ll be using. Not all crossings accept eVisas.
Final Tips
- Book early for buses or flights, especially during holidays.
- Check visa rules for your nationality (especially eVisa acceptance).
- Have USD cash ready for visa-on-arrival and tips.
- Use trusted companies—don’t fall for shady street vendors or taxis.
- Enjoy the ride—the journey from Vietnam to Cambodia can be just as memorable as the destination.
