Thailand and Vietnam are two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations, each offering unique experiences that appeal to all types of travelers. Thailand is known for its vibrant cities like Bangkok, serene northern landscapes in Chiang Mai, and idyllic southern beaches like Phuket. In contrast, Vietnam enchants visitors with its blend of bustling metropolises such as Ho Chi Minh City, serene bays like Halong Bay, and culturally rich towns like Hoi An. With their proximity and connectivity, exploring both countries in one trip allows you to experience the best of Southeast Asia's diversity, culture, and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll be covering the best ways to get from Thailand to Vietnam, whether by flight, train, or bus, as well as giving you all the necessary information to plan your travel!

How Far is Vietnam from Thailand?

Vietnam, a gem in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Rich in history, brimming with delectable cuisine, and home to diverse natural beauty, Vietnam is undeniably a destination worth visiting.

For travelers based in Thailand, the journey to Vietnam is remarkably convenient. The Thailand to Vietnam distance varies depending on the cities you choose to connect. The two countries share a border, making travel possible by air, land, and even water.

By air: The straight-line distance between Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, and Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is approximately 980 kilometers (610 miles). Similarly, flights from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City cover about 860 kilometers (535 miles). Flights are the fastest and most popular way to travel between the two countries.

By land: Traveling overland, such as by bus or car, involves longer routes due to road networks. For instance, the journey from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City via the border crossings in Cambodia spans approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles).

This proximity makes Vietnam a fantastic choice for Thai tourists seeking new experiences in a neighboring country.

How to Get from Thailand to Vietnam by Flight

The best way to get from Thailand to Vietnam is by air. Flights from Thailand to Vietnam are frequent and affordable and connect major cities in both countries. Below, we break down the key details to help you plan your trip effectively.

Departure and Arrival Airports

Thailand and Vietnam both boast well-connected airports, offering numerous flight options:

Thailand Airports: Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) serve as the primary departure points, alongside other regional airports like Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and Phuket International Airport (HKT).

Vietnam Airports: Flights typically land at major Vietnamese hubs such as Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang or Lien Khuong International Airport in Dalat.

Flights from Thailand to Vietnam: Frequency, Time, Airfare

A variety of airlines offer flights from Thailand to major cities in Vietnam, providing travelers with multiple options based on their departure city, budget, and destination. Below is a breakdown of popular routes, including flight frequency, duration, and approximate prices.

Bangkok to Hanoi

Airport: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Don Mueang

Airlines: Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Thai AirAsia.

Flight Frequency: Multiple daily flights (on average 5 flights/day).

Duration: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes - 2 hours

Airfare: $65–$81 USD

Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City

Airport: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Don Mueang

Airlines: Thai Airways, VietJet Air, Vietravel Airlines, and Thai AirAsia.

Flight Frequency: Numerous daily flights (6 flights/day).

Duration: Around 1 hour 30 minutes. Airfare: $50–$81 USD

Bangkok to Da Nang

Airport: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Don Mueang

Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and AirAsia.

Flight Frequency: 2 flights/day.

Duration: About 1 hour 40 minutes.

Airfare: $57–$77 USD (economy).

Chiang Mai to Hanoi

Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport

Airlines: Thai AirAsia

Flight Frequency: 1 flight/day.

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Airfare: $80

Phuket to Ho Chi Minh City

Airport: Phuket International Airport

Airlines: Vietjet Air

Flight Frequency: 1 flight/day, 4 times per week.

Duration: Roughly 2 hours.

Airfare: $110 USD

These routes and schedules make it easy for travelers to access Vietnam from Thailand’s major hubs. With frequent flights, short durations, and competitive pricing, air travel remains the most popular option for exploring Vietnam.

Cheap Flights to Vietnam from Thailand

Finding affordable flights is easy with some planning:

Budget Airlines: VietJet Air, AirAsia, and Thai Smile offer low-cost flights with prices as low as $30 USD during promotions.

Booking Tips: Book early, compare prices on aggregator websites like Skyscanner, and look for off-season deals to secure the best rates.

Flexibility: Flying midweek and during non-peak hours often yields cheaper tickets.

How to Get from Thailand to Vietnam Without Flying?

For travelers who prefer not to fly, several overland and water options connect Thailand and Vietnam. While these alternatives are generally slower than flying, they offer unique experiences and scenic routes.

Thailand to Vietnam Bus

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get from Thailand to Vietnam.

Route: There are two main routes: Thailand–Laos–Vietnam and Thailand–Cambodia–Vietnam.

Duration: The journey takes approximately 20–30 hours depending on stops and border formalities.

Price: Around $40–$60 USD for a one-way ticket.

Considerations: Travelers need valid visas for Cambodia and Vietnam if required, as the bus passes through Cambodian territory.

Thailand to Vietnam by Train

While there’s no direct train from Thailand to Vietnam, it’s possible to travel by train with a stopover in Cambodia.

Route:

Take a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Aranyaprathet (Thai-Cambodia border).

Cross the border to Poipet and take a bus or taxi to Phnom Penh.

From Phnom Penh, take a bus to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Duration: The combined journey can take up to 30 hours, depending on connections and wait times at borders.

Price: Train fares start at $30–$40 USD (Bangkok to Aranyaprathet), with an additional $10–$20 cost for buses or taxis in Cambodia.

Experience: While time-consuming, this option is ideal for slow travelers looking to explore Cambodia along the way.

By Boat

Direct passenger boat services between Thailand and Vietnam are not available. Instead, you can opt for multiple boat rides from Thailand reaching Luang Prabang or Vientiane in Laos, then from Laos to Siem Reap in Cambodia, before reaching Saigon, Vietnam. This option may be lengthy and expensive, but you get to experience multiple countries in the most scenic way!

By Ferry 

There is no direct ferry service between Thailand and Vietnam. However, travelers can take ferries to explore nearby islands or as part of an indirect route:

From Thailand, take the ferry that connects Bangkok to Koh Kong in Cambodia.

From Cambodia, travelers can continue overland by bus to Vietnam.

Planning a Trip from Thailand to Vietnam

Before embarking on your journey from Thailand to Vietnam, proper planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s what you need to know:

Vietnam Visa

Vietnam’s visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay.

Thai Citizens: Thai passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 30 days.

Other Nationalities in Thailand: Many foreign residents or tourists in Thailand may require a visa to enter Vietnam.

E-Visa: Available online for citizens of 80+ countries; valid for a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. The processing fee is typically $25 USD.

Visa on Arrival: Requires pre-approval through a travel agency. This option is available for stays longer than 30 days.

Visa-Free Exemptions: Check if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry.

Preparation Tip: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date.

Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam’s diverse geography means the climate varies by region, so the best time to visit depends on your destination:

Northern Vietnam: October to April (cool, dry weather).

Central Vietnam: February to May (mild temperatures, little rain).

Southern Vietnam: November to April (dry season).

Avoid: May to October (rainy season).

Travelers coming from Thailand will find the weather and travel conditions favorable year-round, though the dry season is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Estimated Cost

Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for a trip to Vietnam from Thailand, based on budget travel:

Transportation:

Flights: $50–$150 USD (round trip, economy).

Bus: $40–$60 USD (one-way).

Train & Overland Routes: $70 USD (combined costs).

Accommodation:

Budget hotels/hostels: $10–$20 USD per night.

Mid-range hotels: $30–$70 USD per night.

Food:

Street food and local restaurants: $5–$10 USD/day.

Dining in mid-range restaurants: $10–$30 USD/day.

Sightseeing & Activities:

Entrance fees for attractions: $5–$15 USD per site.

Guided tours or activities: $20–$50 USD per tour.

Miscellaneous:

Local transportation (buses, taxis, motorbikes): $5–$10 USD/day.

Souvenirs/shopping: $10–$50 USD.

Total Estimated Budget for 5 Days in Vietnam (Excluding Flights):

Budget travelers: $100–$200 USD.

Mid-range travelers: $300–$500 USD.

Can you Do Thailand and Vietnam in One Trip?

Combining Thailand and Vietnam into one trip is a fantastic way to experience two of Southeast Asia's most vibrant and diverse countries. Both destinations offer rich culture, natural beauty, and mouthwatering cuisine, and they’re well-connected by flights, making travel between them seamless. Below is a recommended itinerary for a two-week trip:

Day 1–4: Bangkok & Northern Thailand

Explore Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the bustling markets.

Take a day trip to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fly to Chiang Mai to visit its temples, night markets, and nearby elephant sanctuaries.

Optional: Spend a day in Chiang Rai to see the famous White Temple.

Day 5–8: Northern Vietnam

Fly from Chiang Mai or Bangkok to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital.

Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Temple of Literature.

Take a 2-day Halong Bay cruise to explore limestone islands and caves.

Return to Hanoi for a cultural show or street food tour.

Day 9–11: Central Vietnam

Fly to Da Nang and enjoy its beaches.

Visit Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for lantern-lit streets and tailor shops.

Take a day trip to the imperial city of Hue to explore its historic sites and citadel.

Day 12–14: Southern Vietnam

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to experience the energy of Vietnam’s largest city.

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remnants Museum.

Spend a day exploring the Mekong Delta, famous for its floating markets and lush scenery.

Depart for Thailand or your next destination.

Travel from Thailand to Vietnam with a Travel Agency

While planning your own trip can be exciting, using a travel agency such as Vietnam Original Travel offers distinct advantages, especially for a multi-country itinerary like Thailand and Vietnam.

We handle all the details, including transportation, visas, accommodation, and activity bookings. We can arrange direct flights, overland transfers, and guided tours, saving you time and reducing stress.

We have insider tips on the best destinations, activities, and restaurants. We can recommend hidden gems, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path locations you might miss when planning independently.

Whether you want a luxury escape, an adventure-packed trip, or a cultural journey, we can customize your itinerary to suit your interests, budget, and time constraints.

By partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators, we often secure discounts that make their packages competitive with DIY travel. We can also bundle services to help you save money.

Crossing from Thailand to Vietnam, especially by land, can involve complex visa and transport arrangements. A travel agency ensures smooth transitions and minimizes delays.

In case of emergencies or unexpected changes, we can provide support and solutions. This is especially valuable when dealing with cancellations, health issues, or language barriers.

Booking through a travel agency allows you to fully enjoy the journey, knowing every detail has been professionally managed. It’s an excellent option for first-time visitors or those looking for a stress-free adventure.

Conclusion

Traveling from Thailand to Vietnam opens up a world of incredible sights, sounds, and flavors. Whether you prefer a seamless flight, a scenic overland journey, or a mix of both, planning your trip carefully ensures a memorable experience. To make the most of your adventure, why not let Vietnam Original Travel handle the details? With our expertly curated itineraries, local knowledge, and personalized service, we guarantee a stress-free journey that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable. Book a tour with us today and embark on an unforgettable journey through Thailand and Vietnam!

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