The best way to get from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap (gateway to the spectacular temple of Angkor Wat) in Cambodia will likely make the 287-mile (462km) journey with an hourlong flight. Travelers who don't mind a significantly longer journey may wish to explore taking a private bus, with the option to stop in Cambodia's bustling capital of Phnom Penh.
By Plane
Duration: 1 hour, 20 minutes
The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap takes approximately one hour and twenty minutes. Multiple flights leave from Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat International Airport each day on multiple airlines. Flights arrive at Siem Reap Airport, which is just three miles from Angkor Wat itself.
Travelers should note that Tan Son Nhat International Airport is by far the busiest in Vietnam. The sheer number of travelers can create long lines and bottlenecks at the airport, so travelers should budget enough time to comfortably navigate a busy international airport before their flight, especially since they will be leaving the country. However, the airport is conveniently located only four miles from the city center, which makes it quick and easy to arrive at the airport itself.
By Bus
Duration: 12-20 hours
Those who might wish to see more of both Vietnam and Cambodia may want to explore taking a bus. Multiple private bus companies run service between Ho Chi Minh City and Angkor Wat. The primary stopping point along the way for this route is Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.
A stopover in Phnom Penh would break up the journey between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap, and afford bus travelers the opportunity to stroll the capital's bustling waterfront and explore its famous and ornate Central Market.
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