Vietnam and Cambodia Map: 2025 Tourist Guide & Itineraries

1. General map of Vietnam and Cambodia

Looking at the map above, you can see why these two nations make a perfect combo. Vietnam wraps around the Indochina peninsula like a protective "S", offering a coastline of over 3,000km, while Cambodia sits snugly to the southwest, guarding the heart of the Mekong. The connection isn't just land; it's a network of rivers, flights, and now, coastal seas.

1.1 Tourist Map of Vietnam

In the shape of the letter S, Vietnam is made up of three regions, which are the north, center, and south and all these regions have something different to offer in terms of tourism.

The northern part offers dramatic scenery and is a melting pot of cultural diversity. From the lush green terraced paddy fields in Sapa and Ha Giang, offering stunning and immersive trekking explorations, to having interesting experiences with the different tribes of the region.

As Vietnam's capital for over a thousand years, Hanoi is a city steeped in history with stunning ancient architecture. It's an ideal destination for history buffs and food lovers, who can wander the Old Quarter's charming streets, savoring local street food. For a unique perspective, hire a pedicab to cruise through the city's attractions.

For an unforgettable experience admiring Vietnam's natural beauty, look no further than Ha Long Bay, the world's 7th natural wonder, where you can relax on a luxury yacht. To further your adventure, explore its two sister bays, Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha Bay, which can be combined for the fullest experience. If that's not enough, the journey continues in Ninh Binh, the "landlocked Ha Long Bay", offering a peaceful escape from city life with scenic boat trips and bike rides.

The middle part of the country is equally attracting tourists with its well-preserved historic structures and amazing coastal shorelines. Places like Hoi An and the grand Hue Citadel are must-visit attractions.

Hoi An, famously known as the “Lantern City”, is a historic town that charms visitors with its paper lanterns, making it perfect for those who love romance, photography, and even custom-tailored clothes.

Hue Citadel, on the other hand, showcases the glory of the Nguyễn dynasty. Furthermore, several of the world-renowned beaches, including An Bang and My Khe, are present in the central region. Here scuba diving, site sightseeing and enjoying the scrumptious cuisine are some of the activities to take part in.

Adding to the central region's appeal is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, an ultimate destination for serious adventure seekers. It is home to Son Doong, the world’s biggest cave, offering incredible opportunities for multi-day trekking and cave expeditions. Practical Tip: Exploring Son Doong requires booking a specialized tour years in advance due to high demand and visitor limits, so it is essential to plan accordingly.

Finally, the south presents a vibrant and bustling landscape, highlighted by Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam's largest and most dynamic city, which serves as a hub of commerce and culture perfect for those who love bustling city life, rooftop bars, and understanding modern history through sites like the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Nearby, the Mekong River Delta, the "rice bowl" of Vietnam, creates an environment rich in river culture where visitors can explore the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, sail through mysterious mangroves, sample tropical fruits in lush orchards, and enjoy a peaceful contrast to the energy of the city.

The south is not only ideal for experiencing the lively life but also for starting adventures to beautiful islands like Phu Quoc, which is Vietnam's premier beach destination perfect for relaxation with its white-sand beaches and calm waters, making it an ideal place to end your Vietnamese journey in tranquility, or for extending your trip to neighboring Cambodia.

1.2 Tourist Map of Cambodia

Cambodia, a country in Southeast Asia bounded by Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, offers a journey centered not just on its diverse geographical regions but on the awe-inspiring legacy of the Khmer Empire and the nation's poignant modern history, which represent the primary draws for any first-time traveler.

The eastern region is renowned for its scenic landscapes, appealing to both nature lovers and true adventurers. In Kratie, visitors can have a peaceful experience on the Mekong River with the rare opportunity to see the endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. 

For more serious trekkers, the rugged provinces of Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri offer a chance to explore a less-traveled part of the country, with pristine forests, spectacular waterfalls, and meaningful opportunities to interact with local ethnic minority communities.

In the western region, there’s Siem Reap, the charming gateway city to the main attraction: the temples of Angkor. Here, visitors can explore Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument and a breathtaking sight at sunrise, along with other ancient temples such as the many-faced Bayon and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. While a one-day pass is available to see these sites, the three-day pass is highly recommended for exploring at a more relaxed pace. This also leaves time for other activities such as biking in the area and tasting local cuisine.

In the south, intriguing destinations await. For those with more time seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Battambang is a fabled town filled with colonial structures, modern street art, and the famous bamboo train. For pure relaxation after days of temple exploration, the southern coast offers stunning getaways. The islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are the perfect beach escape with their white sands and turquoise waters, while the nearby towns of Sihanoukville, Kep and Kampot also provide charming coastal scenery.

Last but not the least, the Mekong region is home to the Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, which offers visitors a chance to witness a unique way of life. A boat trip on the lake reveals remarkable floating villages where entire communities live, work, and go to school directly on the water, perfectly adapting their lives to the seasonal rhythm of the lake.

▶️✈️See details of the must-see destinations in Cambodia  

2. Cambodia or Vietnam: Which One Should You Choose?

This is the “Million Dollar Question” for most travelers planning a trip to Southeast Asia. If you have limited vacation days, choosing between these two neighbors can feel impossible. They are like salt and pepper. Distinctly different, yet they enhance each other perfectly.

Instead of giving you a vague answer, we have broken down the differences to help you decide based on your travel style.

2.1 The Quick Comparison Matrix

2.2 Why Choose Vietnam?

Choose Vietnam if you refuse to be bored. Vietnam offers a shape-shifting journey where the landscape changes dramatically every few hours.

One morning, you are trekking through misty rice terraces with a Hmong family in Sapa. The next afternoon, you are sipping a cocktail on a luxury cruise amidst the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Two days later, you are getting lost in the magical, lantern-lit alleyways of Hoi An Ancient Town.

And let's talk about food. Vietnam is a global culinary powerhouse. Forget expensive fine dining; here, the best meals are found on small plastic stools in Saigon. Whether it's a bowl of Pho or a crispy Banh Mi, the street food here will explode with flavor.

Vietnam is the best choice for: Adventure seekers, passionate Foodies, and travelers who want to experience "a little bit of everything" in a single trip.

2.3 Why Choose Cambodia?

Choose Cambodia if you want to slow down and travel back in time. While Vietnam is about high energy, Cambodia is about soul and serenity.

At sunrise, you are standing in awe before the massive stone faces of Bayon Temple within the Angkor complex. By the afternoon, you are cycling through sleepy pepper plantations in the riverside town of Kampot. A few days later, you are the only person walking on the powdery white sands of Koh Rong Island, far away from the tourist crowds.

But the true highlight is the people. The Khmer people are widely known as the warmest in Southeast Asia. Their resilience and gentle smiles will stay with you long after you leave.

Cambodia is the best choice for: History buffs, Spiritual travelers, and those looking to escape the noise for a more authentic, raw experience.

2.4 Our expert verdict

• Less than 8 days: Do not try to do both. You will spend too much time in transit. Pick Cambodia for a relaxed deep-dive, or focus on Northern Vietnam only.
• 12+ days: Combine them! This is the "Golden Ratio". The energy of Vietnam balances perfectly with the serenity of Cambodia. We recommend starting in Hanoi, traveling south, and finishing with a majestic sunset at Angkor Wat.

3. How to Travel Between Vietnam and Cambodia?

How to get around in Vietnam or Cambodia? Well, there are many ways to travel in Vietnam or Cambodia. It all comes down to what you value most: your time, your budget, or the journey itself. While there are no direct trains, you've got great options by air, road, and even river. Here’s the lowdown to help you choose.

3.1 By Air: The Fastest Way There

For travelers short on time, flying is easily the most efficient option. Direct flights connect major hubs in both countries in just over an hour, saving you a full travel day compared to going by land. The most popular method of transport is definitely by direct flight via airlines such as VietJet, Vietnam Airlines, and Cambodia Angkor Air.

3.2 By Bus: The Wallet-Friendly Option

Traveling by bus is the go-to choice for travelers on a tight budget. The route between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh is a classic part of the Southeast Asia backpacking trail, with plenty of modern, comfortable buses available. The journey typically takes 6 to 7 hours, and a one-way ticket costs around $13 - $35. Popular operators on this route include Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Kumho Samco.

3.3 By Boat: The Scenic River Journey

For a truly unforgettable experience, the river journey along the Mekong can't be beat. Instead of a highway, you'll be watching floating villages and lush delta landscapes drift by. The most common trip is a speedboat from Chau Doc in Vietnam's Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh.

3.4 The Coastal Ferry Route: Kampot to Phu Quoc Island

This is the update that savvy travelers have been waiting for. For years, crossing the southern border meant a dusty, exhausting 4-hour bus ride through the Ha Tien border gate.

Starting in 2025, that changes forever.

A new high-speed ferry route now connects Kampot International Tourism Port (Cambodia) directly to Bai Vong Port (Phu Quoc island, Vietnam). This transforms a tiring transit day into a scenic highlight of your trip.

Why this route is a "Must-Do":

• ⚡ Drastic Time Saver: The crossing takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes, saving you hours of travel time compared to the 3-4 hours of the old land-border route.
• 💰 Estimated Cost: Tickets are expected to range from $18 - $25 USD (one-way). Prices are subject to final confirmation by the operator.
• 🌊 The "VIP" Experience: Swap the cramped bus seat for an ocean breeze. You will cruise across the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s not just transit; it’s a tour.
• 🛂 Hassle-Free Immigration: Forget the chaotic land border scams. Customs and immigration checks are handled professionally at the dedicated ferry terminals on both sides.
• 📅 Status: This is a newly launched service for the 2025 season. Schedules can change based on tides and weather.

Contact us for help with your vacation planning, specifically for a leisure trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, including assistance with local bookings and overcoming language barriers.

4. Visa Requirements & Border Crossing Reality

Navigating visa requirements is a critical part of planning your trip. It's important to remember that visa rules depend on your passport's country of origin, not the language you speak. While policies can vary for different nationalities, both Vietnam and Cambodia offer convenient online systems that are accessible to many international travelers.

A crucial first step for all travelers: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your planned date of entry into both countries.

• Vietnam Visa Information

A visa is required for most foreign nationals to enter Vietnam. The most straightforward and recommended method for many travelers is the official E-visa, which you can apply for online before your trip.

We strongly advise all travelers to check their eligibility and apply directly through the official portal of the Vietnam Immigration Department: https://evisa.gov.vn. This website is the single source of truth for all nationalities. The E-visa system typically allows for stays of up to 90 days with options for single or multiple entries.

▶️✈️Find out more in our guide: All about Vietnam Visa

Cambodia Visa Information

Cambodia offers excellent flexibility for many international travelers, with two primary options for obtaining a tourist visa.

• E-visa (Recommended for Peace of Mind): For travelers who prefer to have all documents in order before departure, the E-visa is the best choice. You can check your eligibility and apply on the official Cambodian government website: https://www.evisa.gov.kh.    
• Visa on Arrival (Great for Flexibility): Citizens of many countries are also eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival after landing at the international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, or at major land border crossings.  This is a convenient option, but it's always best to confirm your eligibility beforehand.   

▶️✈️More information: Cambodia Visa

⚠️ Alert: Vietnam-Cambodia Border Scams (Bavet & Ha Tien)

Travelers crossing land borders like Bavet/Moc Bai or Ha Tien often encounter "Fixers" posing as officials to extract money.

Top 3 Scams to Ignore:

• ❌ Fake Health Checks: Demands of $1-$5 for "screening" at side tents. Not official.
• ❌ VIP Stamping Fees: Offers to skip lines for $5-$20. Unnecessary.
• ❌ Visa Service: Claims your E-Visa is invalid to charge for "help." False.

🛡️ How to Avoid Scams (Quick Guide):

• Prep: Have your Passport, 2 printed E-Visa copies, and photos ready in hand.
• Walk: Ignore anyone outside the official building. Go straight to the glass immigration booths.
• Trust: If available, let stewards from reputable buses (e.g., Giant Ibis, Mekong Express) handle your passport.

By the way! At Kampá Tour, we arrange a range of combined monthly tours for travelers of different nationalities to both countries. Traveling from Vietnam to Cambodia, you do not have to worry about the trouble of paperwork; All you need is to pack your passport and carry two photographs, the rest is having fun in the trip.

It will be easy for you to plan your travel in advance and enjoy the whole process if after preparing your active visiting passport you take care of the visa procurement where necessary. Check the policy requirements and two country visa issuance periods upfront so that you can enjoy the two beautiful countries without worries.

4. Best time to visit 

The climates in Vietnam and Cambodia vary greatly. The dry season, which extends from October to April, is the best time to travel to the two countries, for the temperatures are favorable and there is very little rain. For those who want to experience local festivities, visiting in January or February is ideal, as it coincides with Tết (Vietnamese New Year) in Vietnam and Khmer New Year in Cambodia, where many special festivities are celebrated.

▶️✈️For more details on the weather, check out the article: Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Snag your free Southeast Asia Winter–Spring Ebook and start dreaming!

5. Suggested Itinerary for Vietnam and Cambodia

How many days are enough in both countries? 10 and 15 days are the most chosen travel durations by tourists who want to explore Vietnam and Cambodia. These itineraries allow travelers to immerse themselves in the rich culture and vibrant history of both countries, as well as enjoy their stunning natural landscapes.

Suggested itinerary of Vietnam and Cambodia in 10 days

• Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels Tour (Morning) - City Tour (Afternoon)
• Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (Ben Tre, Vinh Long)
• Day 4: Mekong Delta (Can Tho, Chau Doc)
• Day 5: Mekong Delta - Arrive in Phnom Penh by speedboat
• Day 6: Phnom Penh - City Tour + Bike Ride to Koh Dach
• Day 7: Phnom Penh - Sieam Reap
• Day 8: Siem Reap - Angkor Temples
• Day 9: Siem Reap (Small and Large Circuit Temples)
• Day 10: Siem Reap - Departure

More information about this itinerary: Vietnam and Cambodia Tour 10 days

Suggested itinerary of Vietnam and Cambodia in 15 days

• Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
• Day 2: Hanoi - Visit the capital
• Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
• Day 4: Hanoi - Halong Bay
• Day 5: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Flight to Hoi An
• Day 6: Arrive in Hoi An - City Tour
• Day 7: Hoi An - Hue
• Day 8: Hue - Flight to Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta (Ben Tre, Can Tho)
• Day 10: Mekong Delta (Can Tho, Chau Doc)
• Day 11: Mekong Delta - Phnom Penh
• Day 12: Phnom Penh - Flight to Siem Reap - Sap Tonle Lake
• Day 13: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom Temples)
• Day 14: Siem Reap (Small and Large Circuit Temples)
• Day 15: Siem Reap - Departure

More information about this itinerary: Vietnam and Cambodia Tour in 15 Days

Whether you choose a short trip or a longer one, exploring Vietnam and Cambodia will be an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

👇️Our popular Vietnam and Cambodia combination tour👇️

6. FAQs

What plug is used in Vietnam and Cambodia?

In Vietnam and Cambodia, type A and C plugs are mainly used. Type A has two parallel flat pins, while Type C features two round pins. Both types are common in many countries, making it easier to make electronic devices compatible. Find more information and tips about: Sockets & Plugs in Vietnam

Is it safe to travel between Vietnam and Cambodia?

Traveling from Vietnam to Cambodia and vice versa is pretty much risk-free. However, as it is in any place in the world, respect, remain vigilant and take safety measures.

In Vietnam, even though they say Vietnam is a safe country, there have been some reported cases of theft, especially in tourist places. There are not many incidents of violent crime but it is wise to exercise caution when walking around at night and avoid places that may be potentially unsafe.

In Cambodia also, the situation is like that. There are also some issues with tourists getting robbed in touristy places, but crimes against strangers are not often found.

How do travel costs between Vietnam and Cambodia compare?

Vietnam tends to be a bit more expensive compared to Cambodia, especially when it comes to length of stay and activities. Although the prices of accommodation, food, transportation are quite competitive. In short, Cambodia could offer lower costs overall.

▶️More information: Price of a trip to Vietnam

What are the most popular beaches in Vietnam?

Some of the most popular beaches in Vietnam include My Khe in Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc. These beaches are famous for their natural beauty and offer a variety of tourist activities. Explore more: Best Beaches in Vietnam by 3 Regions

How can you travel between Vietnam and Cambodia?

You can travel between Vietnam and Cambodia by land, air, or water. The land border is accessible, and there are direct flights between the main cities of both countries.

CONCLUSION

The map of Vietnam and Cambodia must have helped you to have a complete view of the two countries. Are you ready for an amazing trip, making the most of your experience, with the help of the local tour company, Kampá Tour? Contact us to plan a personalized trip according to your wishes. The next adventure is waiting for you!

Other useful articles:

• Is Vietnam Safe To Travel?
• Is Cambodia Safe To Visit?
• Vietnam or Cambodia: Essential Advice to Help You Choose
• The 9 best paradisiacal beaches to discover in Cambodia
• 11 gifts to buy in Vietnam that you won't find anywhere else
• What to buy in Cambodia: 11 souvenirs you can consider