How to Get to Phu Quoc: Your Complete Transportation Guide

Depending on your starting point, budget and travel style, your journey might involve a flight directly to the island, or a scenic combination of road travel by bus, private car, or motorbike to a coastal city, followed by a refreshing ferry or speedboat ride. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through all the options to reach Phu Quoc and set the stage for an unforgettable island exploration, perhaps even by boat or yacht once you arrive.

1. Location of Phu Quoc: Distance to major cities

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest island, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand. It's located southwest of the Vietnamese mainland, administratively part of Phu Quoc City in Kien Giang Province. Renowned for its white sandy beaches, dense tropical jungle and serene atmosphere, it's a premier tourist destination.

Location: Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam.

Phu Quoc belongs to Kien Giang province in Vietnam. - Photo source: Google Maps

Approximate Distances to Phu Quoc from Major Vietnamese Cities:

Phu Quoc is easily accessible by air from major Vietnamese hubs. For those in Southern Vietnam, a combination of road and sea travel offers a more adventurous and potentially budget-friendly alternative.

2. Traveling to Phu Quoc Island from within Vietnam

How to get to phu quoc island? There are two primary ways to reach Phu Quoc from other parts of Vietnam: by air or by a combination of land and sea travel.

2.1. Traveling by Airplane

This is the fastest and often most convenient way to reach Phu Quoc.

When should you choose this option?

• You are traveling from distant cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, or even Ho Chi Minh City and want to save time.

• You have a tight schedule.

• Your departure city has an airport with direct flights, or you are close to one.

• You prioritize comfort and speed.

Average Flight Time: Approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the departure city.

Cost: Varies significantly based on the airline, time of booking and season. Expect prices to range from approximately 1,000,000 VND to 4,000,000 VND (roughly $40 - $160 USD) for a one-way ticket.

Popular Domestic Flight Routes to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC):

Note: Costs are indicative and subject to change. Always check with airlines for current pricing and availability.

To save travel time, visitors can choose a direct flight to Phu Quoc. - Photo source: Freepik

2.2. Traveling by Land and Sea

Combining road travel to a coastal port city with a subsequent sea journey to Phu Quoc is a popular choice, especially for those coming from southern Vietnam, budget travelers, or those wishing to bring their own car or motorbike to the island. This journey involves two main legs:

• Leg 1: Travel by road to Rach Gia or Ha Tien (both in Kien Giang Province).

• Leg 2: From Rach Gia or Ha Tien, take a speedboat or ferry to Phu Quoc.

When should you choose this option?

• You have more flexible travel time.

• You want to save money compared to flying (though this isn't always the case, especially if factoring in multiple bus/taxi rides).

• You enjoy scenic road trips and want to experience the Mekong Delta landscape.

• You want to transport your own vehicle (car or motorbike) to the island (primarily from Ha Tien via car ferry).

2.2.1. Traveling by Road to Ha Tien and Rach Gia

Travel Time: Varies greatly depending on your starting point and mode of transport. 

Cost: Depends on the vehicle type and distance.

Means of Transport:

• Bus: Widely available and budget-friendly. Companies like Phuong Trang (FUTA Bus), Kumho Samco and Mai Linh operate routes to Rach Gia and Ha Tien.

• Limousine Bus: Offers more comfort with fewer seats, Wi-Fi and sometimes snacks. A good mid-range option.

• Taxi: Most expensive for long distances but offers door-to-door convenience.

• Private Car/Self-Drive: Provides maximum flexibility.

• Motorbike: For the adventurous, offering an immersive experience.

If you are traveling from Can Tho, Ben Tre, or other destinations in the Mekong Delta, using a shuttle bus or limousine service is highly recommended for comfort and convenience. For tailored shuttle services, you might consider options like Joytime, if they operate in your specific area.

For those starting from much farther locations, such as Central or Northern Vietnam, flying to Ho Chi Minh City and then taking a bus or another flight to Phu Quoc is typically more practical than an extensive overland journey. However, if a long-haul bus journey is preferred, sleeper buses offer a degree of comfort.

Suggested Road Routes to Rach Gia/Ha Tien:

2.1.2. Traveling by Sea to Phu Quoc

Once you reach Rach Gia or Ha Tien, fast ferries (speedboats) are the primary way to get to Phu Quoc. Car ferries are also available, mainly from Ha Tien, if you need to transport a vehicle.

Travel Time (Sea):

• From Rach Gia: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes.

• From Ha Tien: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (speedboat); 2.5-3 hours (slow ferry/car ferry).

Cost (Sea):

• Speedboat: Around 250,000 - 550,000 VND ($10 - $22 USD) per person one way.

• Car Ferry (from Ha Tien): Varies for passengers, motorbikes and cars. Passenger tickets are usually cheaper than speedboats, around 185,000 - 250,000 VND ($7 - $10 USD).

Main Ferry Operators: Superdong, Phu Quoc Express, Hoa Binh Ship, Thanh Thoi (car ferry).

Routes and recommended ferry operators:

Important: Ferry schedules can change due to weather conditions, especially during the rainy season. Always book in advance and confirm schedules.

The travel plan combining bus and ferry is an ideal choice for travelers on a tight budget. - Photo source: Freepik

3. How to get to Phu Quoc from other countries

Phu Quoc's allure extends far beyond Vietnam's borders, attracting international visitors eager to experience its tropical charm. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel or a more adventurous overland and sea route from neighboring nations, reaching this island gem is feasible with a bit of planning.

3.1. Traveling by Airplane

Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) welcomes a growing number of direct international flights, making it increasingly accessible for global travelers. If a direct flight isn't available from your location, you can fly into major Vietnamese hubs like Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN) and then take a domestic flight to Phu Quoc.

When should you choose this option?

• You are traveling from outside Vietnam.

• Your departure city (or a nearby major city) offers direct flights to Phu Quoc or convenient connections through HCMC or Hanoi.

• You prioritize speed and convenience for international travel.

Travel Time: Varies significantly based on the origin city and whether the flight is direct or connecting. 

Cost: Highly variable. Check with airlines for specific routes and prices. Costs are usually quoted in the local currency of the departure country or USD.

Popular International Flight Routes (Direct or with One Stop):

Note: Many international routes are seasonal or operated by budget carriers, so availability and pricing fluctuate. Always check current flight schedules.

3.2. Traveling by Land and Sea

For those seeking a more immersive journey from nearby countries like Cambodia, combining overland travel with a sea crossing offers an alternative to flying. It's possible to travel overland from Cambodia to the Vietnamese coastal towns of Ha Tien or Rach Gia and then take a ferry to Phu Quoc as described in section 2.2. This is a more adventurous route often chosen by backpackers. The Ha Tien border crossing (Prek Chak / Xa Xia) is the most convenient for this. This route offers a unique cultural experience but requires more planning regarding visas and border crossings. 

For detailed information on crossing from Cambodia and then heading to Phu Quoc, or vice-versa, you might find our dedicated guide "How to Get from Phu Quoc to Cambodia” helpful. 

Nowadays, international tourists also have multiple transportation options to reach Phu Quoc Island. - Photo source: Freepik

4. Important Notes When Traveling to Phu Quoc

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Phu Quoc, keep these tips in mind:

Best Time to Visit:

• Phu Quoc has a tropical climate. The dry season typically runs from November to April (sometimes extending to May), offering sunny skies, calm seas and ideal conditions for beach activities. This is also the peak tourist season.

• The rainy season is generally from May/June to October. September and October often see the heaviest rainfall, which might disrupt boat trips and outdoor plans.

• Many consider the period from March to May/early June as excellent, with warm weather and potentially fewer crowds than the absolute peak months. However, the user outline suggests March to August as ideal and September to December as rainy. It's good to note that shoulder months can vary. For the most reliably dry and sunny weather, November to April is a safe bet.

Getting Around Phu Quoc:

• Motorbike: Renting a motorbike ($6-10 USD/day) is the most popular and flexible way to explore the island at your own pace.

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available, especially in Duong Dong town and major tourist areas. Mai Linh and Vinasun are reputable companies. Grab (ride-hailing app) also operates on the island.

• Bicycle: Good for short distances and exploring local areas.

• Electric Buggies/Shuttles: Some resorts offer these and VinBus operates free electric bus routes connecting the airport, major tourist spots and Vinpearl attractions.

• Private Car with Driver: Can be hired for a day for more comfort, especially for groups or families.

Accommodation:

• Phu Quoc offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts (like Vinpearl, InterContinental, JW Marriott) to mid-range hotels, bungalows and budget-friendly guesthouses/hostels.

• Book in advance, especially if traveling during peak season (December - April) or public holidays, to secure your preferred choice and better rates.

• Research locations: Long Beach (Bai Truong) is popular for its sunsets and range of options. Ong Lang Beach offers a quieter vibe. Sao Beach and Khem Beach are famed for their beauty. Duong Dong is the main town with many amenities.

Other Important Tips:

• Book transportation early: This applies to flights and ferries, especially during peak season or holidays, to get better prices and ensure availability.

• Carry identification: Always have your passport (and visa if required) or Vietnamese ID card with you.

• Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, as the tropical sun can be intense.

• Water safety: Be cautious when swimming or participating in water sports. Pay attention to local warnings and conditions.

• Environmental respect: Help keep Phu Quoc beautiful by disposing of trash properly and avoiding damage to coral reefs or natural habitats.

• Bargaining: When shopping at local markets (not in fixed-price stores), polite bargaining is common.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when active outdoors.

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes and restaurants. Consider getting a local SIM card for convenient data access.

It is advisable to buy a Vietnamese SIM or eSIM for convenient communication and internet use in Phu Quoc. - Photo source: Joytime Travel Agency

Whether you choose the swift convenience of a direct flight, the scenic route combining road and sea travel within Vietnam, or an international journey connecting through major hubs, this guide has laid out your pathway to Pearl Island. By understanding the various transportation options, weighing factors like time, budget and travel style, you can confidently plan your arrival. From the moment you decide on your route to setting foot on its beautiful shores, the journey to Phu Quoc is the first step in an unforgettable island escape.

Feeling inspired to explore the wonders of Phu Quoc? Let Joytime Travel Agency take the hassle out of your travel planning! Whether you need assistance booking the most convenient flights, arranging comfortable land transfers to Ha Tien or Rach Gia, securing your ferry tickets, or even crafting a complete Phu Quoc itinerary filled with exciting tours and relaxing stays, Joytime is here to help. Our experts specialize in creating seamless and memorable travel experiences in Vietnam.

Contact Joytime Travel Agency today to start planning your dream Phu Quoc adventure and make every moment a joyful one!