Vietnam and Cambodia Travel Guide: How to Travel to Cambodia from Vietnam

Vietnam and Cambodia are two beautiful countries in Southeast Asia. A trip to Southeast Asia promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.

Vietnam has bustling cities, scenic landscapes, and rich history. And Cambodia is famous for its ancient temples, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture.

This Vietnam and Cambodia travel guide will provide all the information on how to travel to Cambodia from Vietnam. It includes the distance between the two countries, the best time to visit, and the different modes of transportation available.

What’s the Distance between Vietnam and Cambodia?

See the map of Vietnam and Cambodia. Vietnam and Cambodia share a land border. The distance between the two countries varies depending on the location you are traveling from. The distance between Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, and Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is approximately 888 kilometers (552 miles).

The distance between Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, and Phnom Penh is about 230 kilometers (143 miles). Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex. The distance between Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 392 kilometers (244 miles).

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia

The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is generally dry and sunny during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature is also cooler and more comfortable. The average temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

The rainy season in Vietnam and Cambodia runs from May to October. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity levels.

The wet season can be challenging due to flooding and transport disruptions. But it can be an excellent time to visit as fewer tourists exist. And the landscapes are lush and green.

Travel to Cambodia from Vietnam by Flight

Flying is the most convenient and fastest way to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia. Several direct flights are available between major cities in Vietnam and Cambodia. Take care of Cambodia Airlines and Flight Lines; here are some of the significant flights to Cambodia:

Major Direct Flights from Vietnam to Cambodia

From	To	Flights Info.	Time	Price
Hanoi	Phnom Penh	1-2 flights	1h40m	≈$217
Hanoi	Siem Reap	1 flight	1h40m	≈$203
Ho Chi Minh City	Phnom Penh	6-7 flights	1h	≈$174
Ho Chi Minh City	Siem Reap	2-4 flights	1h15m	≈$188
Ho Chi Minh City	Sihanouk	1-3 flights	1h15m	≈$181
Da Nang	Siem Reap	1-2 flights	2h	≈$203

Vietnam to Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh International Airport

Vietnam Airlines and Cambodia Angkor Air offer direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. Flight times are approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the cities. You will arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport.

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Vietnam to Siem Reap

Siem Reap International Airport

Direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap are available. It's convenient for those visiting the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. This route includes Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, and Jetstar Pacific. You will arrive at Siem Reap International Airport.

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Vietnam to Sihanoukville

Sihanouk International Airport

Sihanoukville is a coastal city in Cambodia and a popular destination for beach lovers. Direct flights are available from Ho Chi Minh City to Sihanoukville, operated by Cambodia Angkor Air. You will arrive at Sihanouk International Airport.

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Entering Cambodia from Vietnam by Road

If you prefer to travel by road, there are several border crossings between Vietnam and Cambodia.

Bavet

Moc Bai - Bavet: This border crossing is the most popular for travelers heading to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. It takes around six hours by road from Ho Chi Minh City to reach the border. And another two to three hours will be spent to reach Phnom Penh.

Ha Tien - Prek Chak

Ha Tien - Prek Chak: This border crossing in southwestern Vietnam is a popular option for those heading to Sihanoukville or Kampot. It takes around seven hours by road to get to Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh City. And another two to three hours will be spent to get to Sihanoukville.

The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by road takes approximately 6-7 hours. The trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap takes about 10-12 hours. It is important to note that road conditions in Cambodia can be challenging.

When Entering Cambodia from Vietnam, you’d better take some cash (the dollar is better, about$35). It’s more cost-efficient.

Traveling with a reputable tour operator or a trusted driver is advisable. We are a local and professional travel agency; you can trust Indochina Tour.

Travel to Cambodia from Vietnam by Train

There is no direct train service between Vietnam and Cambodia, but train services are available within each country. In Vietnam, the train is a popular mode of transport for locals and tourists. The services connect major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. In Cambodia, a limited train service is available, with a line connecting Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville.

Vietnam Train from Ho Chi Minh City

However, you can take a train from Ho Chi Minh City to the border town of Moc Bai. (You can book the ticket on http://dsvn.vn in advance.) And then you can cross the border into Cambodia by road. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your destination in Cambodia.

Crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia by Water

For those looking for a unique travel experience, crossing the border between Vietnam and Cambodia by water is an option. Several boat services are available, including speedboats and slow boats, so that you can enjoy the Mekong River cruise between Vietnam and Cambodia. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by boat takes approximately 8-10 hours. It offers stunning views of the Mekong Delta and the surrounding countryside.

The ferry from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh

The most popular route is from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh in Cambodia. The journey takes around four to six hours and costs $20 to $30. However, boat services depend on weather and can be canceled in unfavorable conditions.

Documents for Entering Cambodia

Travelers from most countries will require a Cambodia visa to enter Cambodia, including those entering overland from Vietnam. Visas can be obtained at the border or in advance through the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Cambodia e-visa

You can also apply for an e-visa online in advance. It's a convenient option for those who want to avoid long queues at the border.

For travelers entering Cambodia overland from Vietnam, it's essential to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity. Additionally, carrying sufficient cash in USD is crucial, as ATMs are only sometimes readily available at the border crossing.

Top Destinations in Cambodia

Cambodia has many beautiful destinations with unique charm and attractions. Here are some of the top destinations in Cambodia:

City to Phnom Penh

The Royal Palace

Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia, located in the south-central part of the country. It's Cambodia's largest city and cultural, economic, and political center. There are several ways to reach Phnom Penh, but the most common ways are by plane, bus, and taxi.

By plane, there are daily flights from major cities in Southeast Asia to Phnom Penh International Airport. The airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center, and taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for transportation.

Several companies operate daily from Vietnam by bus. The trip takes about 6-7 hours from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and costs around $12-$15. The bus station in Phnom Penh is located near the city center, and tuk-tuks are available for transportation.

Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, there are several things to do and see. Popular Phnom Penh attractions include the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields. You can also stroll along the Mekong River or visit the Central Market and Night Market for shopping and local food.

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City to Siem Reap

The Angkor Wat Temple Complex

Siem Reap is a city in northwest Cambodia near the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. It's a popular destination for tourists due to its rich history, culture, and architecture. There are several ways to reach Siem Reap, but the most common ways are by plane, bus, and taxi.

By plane, there are daily flights from major cities in Southeast Asia to Siem Reap International Airport. The airport is about 8 kilometers from the city center, and taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for transportation.

By bus, several companies operate daily from neighboring countries, Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the trip takes about 12-13 hours and costs around $12-$15. The bus station in Siem Reap is located near the city center, and tuk-tuks are available for transportation.

Once you arrive in Siem Reap, there are several things to do in Siem Reap. The most popular attraction is the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other famous temples include Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Banteay Srei. You can also stroll around the Old Market and Pub Street for shopping and local food.

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City to Sihanoukville

Serendipity Beach

Sihanoukville, also known as Kampong Som, is a coastal city in the south of Cambodia. It is known for its beautiful beaches and islands, making it a popular tourist destination. To reach Sihanoukville from Vietnam, the best way is by bus.

Buses from Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh operate daily to Sihanoukville. The trip can take anywhere from 6 to 12 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. The night bus from Ho Chi Minh City or Phnom Penh is recommended. The journey is long, and the buses are comfortable.

Once you arrive in Sihanoukville, there are several things to do and see in the lovely beach resort. The most popular attraction is the beaches, which include Serendipity Beach, Otres Beach, and Independence Beach. You can also take a boat to one of the nearby islands, such as Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. You can have even more stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Other activities in Sihanoukville include snorkeling, diving, and visiting the Ream National Park.

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Conclusion

Vietnam and Cambodia are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that offer a wealth of travel experiences for visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Vietnam and Cambodia trip can satisfy you. If you plan to travel to Cambodia from Vietnam, several transportation options are available, including flights, buses, trains, and boats.

Each mode of transport has its pros and cons. Considering your budget, time constraints, and travel preferences, you can choose the best way to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia.

Regardless of how you get there, Cambodia has several top destinations worth visiting, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Each city offers a unique experience, from exploring ancient temples to relaxing on pristine beaches. With some planning, you can easily combine a visit to Cambodia with a trip to Vietnam. Moreover, you can contact us to obtain a genuinely memorable Southeast Asian adventure.