Direct flight
Fastest and most convenient way between major cities
Flight (with stopover)
Flexible routes if direct flights are unavailable
Bus + transfers (via Cambodia or Laos)
Overland journey across Southeast Asia
Train
No direct railway connection, requires complex transfers
Quick answer: Traveling from Thailand to Vietnam is easiest by direct flight from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Overland travel by bus and train via Laos or Cambodia is possible, but it requires multiple transfers and much more time.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: Bangkok → Ho Chi Minh City ~750 km by air | Bangkok → Hanoi ~1,000 km by air.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight ~1.5–2 hours | Bus/train via Laos or Cambodia ~25–45 hours.
- 💰 Price range: Flight US$40–200 | Overland bus/train US$40–60+.
- ✈️ Best option: Direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket to Vietnam.
- 🚌 Budget option: Bus or train + bus via Cambodia or Laos with several transfers.
- 🚆 Train: No direct railway between Thailand and Vietnam.
Last updated in April 2026
Travel from Thailand to Vietnam by plane, bus or train + bus.
Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, offering vibrant cities, beaches, mountains and rich cultural heritage. The main international gateways are Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, all served by frequent flights from Thailand. Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two countries.
Direct flights are the easiest way to reach Vietnam.
Direct flights operate from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major Vietnamese cities. Flight time is about 1.5–2 hours, with both full-service and low-cost airlines offering daily connections.
Overland travel is also possible via Laos or Cambodia, combining trains and buses. There is no direct railway between Thailand and Vietnam, so overland trips require multiple transfers and usually take 1–2 days. You can also continue from Laos to Vietnam or Cambodia to Vietnam by tourist bus or plane.
| Transfer Mode – Thailand to Vietnam | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City | About 880 km (bus/train), about 750 km (plane) | $40–150 |
| Bangkok to Hanoi | About 1360 km (land), about 1000 km (plane) | $70–200 |
| Chiang Mai to Ho Chi Minh City | About 1500 km (bus/train), about 1215 km (plane) | $70–200 |
| Phuket to Ho Chi Minh City | About 965 km (bus/train), about 1700 km (plane) | $80–100 |
How to book bus, train, ferry tickets or flights for Vietnam online?
Now it is very easy to search and book bus, train, ferry tickets or flights for Vietnam (+ other countries in Asia) online. There are some reliable companies and search platforms, but there are 2 leaders in this service – 12go.asia and Baolau.
1. Search and book tickets for Vietnam at 12go.asia ➜
This is the one of the best search engines for Southeast Asia, especially for Thailand or Vietnam. 12go.asia offers to book train, bus, ferry / boat tickets, private cars or flights for various countries of Asia, eg.: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philipinnes, China, India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar. Read the information before you book and buy your tickets online. 12go.asia has almost all the most frequented travel routes in Thailand and nearby countries.
2. Search and book tickets for Vietnam at Baolau ➜
Also another great search engine for online booking tickets and flights in southeast Asia: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philipinnes, Myanmar… If you book train tickets for Thailand with Baolau / 12go.asia, you receive by email your SRT e-ticket. You can print it and board the train at any station. No need to collect physical tickets anywhere.
Popular travel routes from Thailand to Vietnam:
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Thailand to Vietnam:
How to book bus, train tickets or flights from Thailand to Vietnam?
How much does it cost to travel from Thailand to Vietnam?
Direct flights usually cost about US$40–200, depending on the route, airline and travel season.
What is the travel distance from Thailand to Vietnam?
Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City is about 750 km by air, while Bangkok to Hanoi is about 1,000 km by air.
How long does it take to travel from Thailand to Vietnam?
Direct flights take about 1.5–2 hours. Overland travel by bus and train usually takes 25–45 hours.
What is the fastest way to get from Thailand to Vietnam?
Direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are the fastest option.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Thailand to Vietnam?
The cheapest option is usually a bus or train + bus journey via Cambodia, costing about US$40–60.
Can you travel by train from Thailand to Vietnam?
No. There is no direct railway, so you must continue by bus through Cambodia or Laos.
Can you travel by train via Laos?
Yes, partly. Travel by train to Laos, then continue to Vietnam by bus or plane.
Does Vietnam have a railway network?
Yes. Vietnam Railways operates trains between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, including sleeper services.
Are there direct flights from Thailand to Vietnam?
Yes. Direct flights operate daily from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket to major cities in Vietnam.
Which are the main international airports in Vietnam?
The main airports are Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang and Phu Quoc.
What are the most popular routes from Thailand to Vietnam?
The busiest routes are Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok to Hanoi, both with direct daily flights.
How can you travel around Vietnam and Thailand?
Both countries offer trains, buses, flights, ferries, taxis, minivans and motorbike rentals.
| Transport Option | Travel Information |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Plane |
Best for: Fastest and most convenient travel. Travel time: About 1–2 hours (direct flights). Price: US$40–250 per person. Routes: Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket → Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City. Pros: Daily direct flights, comfortable and ideal for saving time. Cons: Higher cost and airport transfers required. |
| 🚌 Bus |
Best for: Budget overland travel. Travel time: About 24–40+ hours. Price: US$35–80 per person. Routes: Via Laos or Cambodia to Vietnam. Pros: Cheapest international option with scenic overland travel. Cons: Very long journey and possible border delays. |
| 🚆 Train + Bus |
Best for: Scenic multi-country travel. Travel time: Varies by route. Price: Depends on train classes and connections. Routes: Via Laos or Cambodia using train and bus combinations. Pros: Comfortable, scenic and flexible for longer trips. Cons: No direct railway between Thailand and Vietnam. |
| 🚗 Private Car |
Best for: Comfort and flexible travel. Travel time: Depends on route and border crossing. Price: Higher than public transport. Routes: Available on selected international routes with driver. Pros: Door-to-door service and flexible schedule. Cons: Expensive and not available on every route. |
| 🏍️ Motorbike |
Best for: Experienced adventure travelers. Travel time: Flexible. Price: Fuel, permits and border fees. Routes: Via international border crossings through Laos or Cambodia. Pros: Maximum freedom and unforgettable overland experience. Cons: Border paperwork, varying road conditions and riding experience required. |