3 Ways to Get from Vietnam to Cambodia (2024/2025): By Boat, By Plane, By Road

Vietnam and Cambodia are neighboring countries, and a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia is one of the popular combos in Southeast Asia.

To cross the border from Vietnam to Cambodia, broadly speaking, you can choose from three ways: by boat, by plane, or by road. No international trains are available between these two countries yet.

No matter which way you choose, departing from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the most popular option for time-saving and cost-saving. The most famous and most-used arrival cities in Cambodia are Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

1. Vietnam to Cambodia by Boat

Traveling by boat is a wonderful way to journey from Vietnam to Cambodia and discover the enchanting Mekong River. You have the option of taking a 5-hour ferry or embarking on a 3–7-day international cruise.

1) Ferries from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh

• Cost: between US$25 and US$65
• Duration: 5 hours

The ferry to Phnom Penh leaves from Chau Doc every morning around 7:30. Therefore, we suggest arriving in Chau Doc a day early to spend the night there before catching the ferry.

To avoid a long and tiring 6-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Chau Doc, we recommend staying overnight in Can Tho on the way. This will break up your journey and give you a chance to rest and see the largest floating market in Vietnam.

You can check Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta Tours for inspiration or contact us.

2) Vietnam to Cambodia by Mekong Cruise

Cruising the Mekong River could be the icing on the cake for your Vietnam and Cambodia trip. Watch sunrises/sunsets with crafted cocktails, discover local villages and taste fresh fruits in the orchard, board a sampan to explore the fascinating Cai Rang floating market, and enjoy the stunning scenery at a relaxing riverboat pace...

You have two options for the cruise:

• The 3-night, 4-day trip between Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh
• The 7-night, 8-day trip between Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap

Which cruise company to choose? The Mekong Princess is strongly recommended. It departs every Thursday from Saigon or Siem Reap alternative.

• It departs directly from Saigon Port (just about 5 minute's transfer from the city center). Most other cruises will depart from My Tho/ Can Tho City, which is about 3 hours' drive from Ho Chi Minh.
• With just 14 rooms, you could enjoy more private service and stunning views as all rooms have views of the river.
• It is designed with French Colonial style mixed with Vietnam and Khmer culture to bring you an unforgettable experience.

The price for the route between Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap is from US$1500 per person based on twin share or from US$2000 based on single occupancy. The cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh costs less by US$200-300 per person for the whole journey. Contact us for the exact schedule and price details.

2-Week Vietnam-Cambodia Tour with a Luxurious Mekong Cruise

2. Vietnam to Cambodia by Plane

Flying from Vietnam to Cambodia is the fastest and most convenient way. It takes around 2 hours from Hanoi to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, 1 hour from Ho Chi Minh, and 1.5 hours from Danang.

The airfare starts from US$90 for an economy-class ticket in the low season (July to September). The price might double in the peak season (October to March).

Confused about choosing the best transportation connections? Just share your interests and requirements with us. Our travel consultant will tailor-make an itinerary for you.

12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights A Journey in Wonders

3. Vietnam to Cambodia by Road

The slowest option is to travel overland. Vietnam shares seven border crossings with Cambodia and many provide a Visa on Arrival service.

The most popular crossing is Moc Bai, Vietnam – Bavet, Cambodia. By bus, you need at least 6½ hours by land: from Ho Chi Minh it's 2 hours to Moc Bai and then around 4½ hours on to Phnom Penh including the border crossing (about 1 hour).

Taking a private transfer is the most comfortable and convenient option, costing from US$300 per car, and it's a bit quicker too. Contact us for more info.

Buses are the most affordable, costing US$20–35. When passing through immigration, you'll need to get off the bus (change bus) and carry/wheel all your luggage with you.

14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour

Visa Requirements to Enter Cambodia

A Visa on Arrival is an available option at most border crossings to Cambodia. The cost is around US$35 per person. To get the visa, you should prepare and bring 2 passport-sized photos, or you could pay an additional US$2–5 if you don't have the photos. Based on our experience, some officials might take an additional service charge (US$1–10) when you enter Cambodia using a Visa on Arrival.

If you would like to avoid this hassle, you can apply for an e-visa in advance online (single entry with a maximum stay of 30 days).

Traveling with Asia Highlights

When traveling with Asia Highlights, we will provide you with a hassle-free experience. You can check out some popular itineraries below for inspiration. If you want something different, we are happy to tailor-make your trip for you.