Phnom Penh - the capital of Cambodia, possess a great charm and vitality, crisscrossed by broad tree-lined boulevards and dotted with old colonial villas. If you travel from Ho Chi Minh City, this place probably will be your first big stop in Cambodia. Among the three major means of transportation including plane, bus and boat, flights from Ho Chi Minh to Cambodia are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Phnom Penh.

Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh

The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is 212 kilometers (132 miles). The flights cost you around $165 on average with a flight time of approximately 57 minutes. Cheap flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh can most be found in November.

Cambodia Angkor Air is one of the top tier airlines that operate direct flights from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh and frequently offer cheap price for these flights.

When is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

Most travelers choose to visit Phnom Penh in December and January, when temperatures are at their most pleasant and rainfall is at its lowest. This is also the most crowded time in the year. However, if you don’t hope to see a busy Phnom Penh, the rainy season (from May to October) is a good time for you because there will be far fewer tourists. Furthermore, the rain showers in this season are mostly confined to the afternoons, so you can plan your journey around them.

Transportation in Phnom Penh

Once you’ve got in Phnom Penh, you will realize that tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are the most popular vehicles to get around the city. They are affordable and easy-to-find with a fare ranging from $1 to $3 for a tuk-tuk ride, even less for a motorbike taxi.

Besides, there are public buses in Phnom Penh which cost less than $0.5 per trip. The most useful route is Line 03 which stops at the International Airport, Central Market and Night Market. Line 01, combined with some walking, brings you to the Royal Palace and National Museum.

Top attractions in Phnom Penh

Royal Palace is the most impressive of the city’s attractions. This complex of buildings has 4 main structures including the Silver Pagoda, the Khemarin Palace, the Throne Hall and the Inner Court.

National Museum is not only the premier collection of the Cambodian cultural history but also the largest architectural and historical museum.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S-21 Prison, gives you a deeper insight into the recent tragic Cambodian history.

Phsar Thmei (Central Market) is the best and freshest market in Cambodia for browsing, filled with stalls selling everything from gold and silver jewelry, electronic equipment, clothing to dried and fresh food and lots of souvenirs.