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
How to Travel from Thailand to Vietnam?
Traveling from Thailand to Vietnam is easiest by direct flight. Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket have regular connections to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major Vietnamese cities. Flights usually take around 1.5–2 hours.
✈️ Direct Flights
Flying is the fastest and most convenient option, with both low-cost and full-service airlines operating regular international flights.
💡 Travel tip: Overland journeys usually take much longer and require several transfers. From Thailand you can also continue through Laos to Vietnam or Cambodia to Vietnam.
✈️ Thailand to Vietnam by Plane
✈️ Flying is the fastest and easiest way to travel from Thailand to Vietnam. Major Thai cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket offer flights to popular destinations in Vietnam. Flight time is usually around 1.5–2 hours, depending on the route.
✈️ Bangkok → Vietnam
Bangkok is the main departure point, with flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.
- Ho Chi Minh City: ~1.5–2 hours
- Hanoi: ~2 hours
- Da Nang: ~1.5–2 hours
✈️ Chiang Mai → Vietnam
Chiang Mai is a convenient departure point for travelers in northern Thailand. Chiang Mai → Hanoi is especially useful for continuing to northern Vietnam.
Travel time: usually around 2 hours on direct routes.
✈️ Phuket → Vietnam
Phuket is useful for travelers staying in southern Thailand. Depending on the season and destination, direct or connecting flights may be available.
Best for: travelers already staying in Phuket.
💡 Travel tip: For most travelers, flying is the best choice because it saves a great deal of time. Choose an overland route through Cambodia or Laos mainly if you want to explore another country along the way.
🚍 Thailand to Vietnam Overland via Cambodia or Laos
Traveling from Thailand to Vietnam overland is possible, but it takes much longer than flying and usually requires several bus or train connections. The two main routes are via Cambodia or via Laos.
- Thailand → Cambodia → Vietnam: A practical route for travelers continuing to southern Vietnam, especially Ho Chi Minh City.
- Thailand → Laos → Vietnam: A scenic alternative for travelers heading toward northern or central Vietnam.
💡 Travel tip: Overland travel is best for travelers who want to explore Cambodia or Laos along the way. If your main goal is to reach Vietnam quickly, flying is much more convenient.
Thailand to Vietnam: Which Transport Is Best?
| Transport | ⏱️ Time | 💰 Price | Comfort | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Direct flight | 1.5–2 h | Varies by route | ★★★★★ | Fastest & easiest |
| 🚌 Bus + transfers | 1–2 days | Budget option | ★★★☆☆ | Budget travelers |
| 🚆 Train + bus | 1–2 days | Budget option | ★★★☆☆ | Slow travel |
| 🚕 Private transfer | Varies by route | Higher cost | ★★★★★ | Groups & flexibility |
Rating: ★★★★★ excellent ★★★★☆ very good ★★★☆☆ good.
For most travelers, a direct flight is clearly the best option between Thailand and Vietnam. Overland travel via Laos or Cambodia is possible for travelers who prefer a slower journey and want to visit additional destinations along the way.
How to book bus, train, ferry tickets or flights for Vietnam online?
Booking bus, train, ferry tickets or flights in Southeast Asia is easy online. Two of the most useful booking platforms for Thailand and Vietnam are 12go.asia and Baolau.
12go.asia is one of the leading booking platforms in Southeast Asia. You can search and book flights, trains, buses, ferries and private transfers in Thailand, Vietnam and other Asian countries. It is especially useful for comparing different transport options and routes.
Baolau is another useful booking platform for Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. You can search and book flights, trains, buses and other transport online.
🎫 Baolau
Search and book flights, trains, buses and other transport between Thailand, Vietnam and other countries in Southeast Asia.
🚌 12go.asia
Compare and book flights, buses, trains, ferries and private transfers for Thailand, Vietnam and nearby countries.
Popular travel routes from Thailand to Vietnam:
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel 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.
