Thailand and Vietnam Trip: How to Cross the Border?

From temples and bustling markets in Thailand to stunning scenery and rich history in Vietnam, a trip across the border between Thailand and Vietnam is well worth the experience.

Thailand and Vietnam do not have a direct border, they are separated by the two countries of Laos and Cambodia, and crossing the border mainly involves transportation methods such as buses, trains, driving and airplanes.

If you are on a budget, it's a cost-effective choice to take a bus or train through Laos or Cambodia to cross the border; those with limited time can choose the fastest and most convenient flights; and adventure lovers can choose to drive across the border.

In this blog, we will cover what you need to know about the best ways to make an easy border crossing, as well as insider tips for a smooth itinerary, so you can experience an unforgettable adventure!

Thailand and Vietnam Border: Map and A Visual Guide

In reality, Thailand and Vietnam have no direct land border, Laos and Cambodia separate them. This means all overland journeys between Thailand and Vietnam require passing through at least one of these countries.

There are two options to cross the Vietnam border from Thailand by land: you could head northeast from Thailand into Laos, then east into Vietnam; or you could head southeast from Thailand into Cambodia, then northeast into Vietnam.

It sounds a little more complicated, so to make it easier to plan your trip to the Thailand-Vietnam border crossing, please refer to the map below where we indicate the approximate locations of Thailand and Vietnam.

The location map of Thailand and Vietnam.

Travel Thailand and Vietnam by Bus: How to Cross the Border?

Traveling between Thailand and Vietnam by bus is a common and budget-friendly option, but direct cross-border buses are not available—you'll need to take several buses and cross at least one country in the process.

Via Laos

Taking a bus through Laos is actually the easiest way to get from Vietnam to Thailand, and while the journey may take some time, the low cost is really worth it during the peak tourist season in Southeast Asia, especially if you are on a budget and are not in a hurry.

There are buses from Hanoi to the Laotian cities of Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and the long overland journey takes about 20-23 hours. The bus from Hanoi to Vientiane is the best point to enter Thailand from Laos, and the ticket price is about $25 per person. Modern sleeper buses operate on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with vintage sleeper buses available on all other days.

You can then take a direct bus from Vientiane to Bangkok for around $31, taking around 11 hours to complete the 658km journey. There are also direct buses from Vientiane to Khon Kaen, Udon Thani and Nong Khai, or you can take a direct bus from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai or Loei.

Via Cambodia

The most common route starts from Saigon, passes through Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and ends in Bangkok. There are regular buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh every day, and the journey takes about 6 hours and costs around US$9-10, making it a quick and affordable option. Routes from Hanoi to Bangkok via Laos are also available, but take longer.

For the whole trip, it could take 20–40 hours depending on your route and itinerary connection. Also, on the way, you can enjoy the landscape of different countries. While not the fastest way to travel, it's certainly a special adventure!

9 Days Thailand and Vietnam Classic Tour

Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Saigon – Hanoi – Halong Bay - Hanoi

Travel Thailand and Vietnam by Train: How to Cross the Border?

Direct trains from Vietnam to Thailand do not exist at the moment, so the whole route still has to pass Laos or Cambodia and you should change a few trains just like it is with the bus.

Via Laos

The bus from Hanoi to Vientiane, then the train from Vientiane to Bangkok, takes about a 10-hour direct train ride. The price of the train ranges from 8-40 dollars, depending on the chair class.

Via Cambodia

Travel by bus from Saigon to Phnom Penh, then take the train from Phnom Penh to Ban Klong Luk on the Thai border. It takes about 5 hours and costs about 2 dollars per person. Transfer to the train, ride for 5 hours, from Ban Klong Luk to Bangkok.

Overall, the total trip takes about 16–30 hours. While it is not a full train journey, you can take both trains and buses, which gives you more possibilities while passing through beautiful and scenic Southeast Asia.

Scenic train ride on the border crossing between Thailand and Vietnam.

Drive from Thailand to Vietnam: How to Cross the Border?

If you want a bit more freedom, crossing the Thai-Vietnamese border by car is also a good option. You may have ultimate flexibility for the whole journey and can visit interesting stop-offs on the route from Thailand to the Vietnamese border, but it requires some advance planning.

It's convenient to rent a car in Vietnam to travel to Thailand. While some car rental companies do have vehicles that cross the border, you will need to provide some documents for Laos or Cambodia as well. It is important to confirm the requirements of the policy in advance.

Your travel paperwork includes the international driving permits for every country you will pass through, English original vehicle registration certificate, vehicle insurance or approved International Circulation Permit (ICP), border crossing permits for your vehicle and a valid passport with relevant visas for each country you travel through.

Driving gives you the most freedom to go at the own pace, but it can be harder if you are not familiar with the local traffic laws or speak the language. The road conditions and the signs may differ from your own country.

14 Days Best of Thailand and Vietnam Tour

Bangkok – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle – Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hanoi – Da Nang – Hoi An – Da Nang - Saigon

Flight is the Easiest Way to Travel Thailand and Vietnam

For speed and convenience, flying is the most direct and quickest way between Thailand and Vietnam. Flying between countries gives a stress-free transit and is the all-time best option for those who want to travel the countries and make the most of their time exploring each country.

The flights between Thailand and Vietnam are extremely short, no more than 1 to 2 hours at most. Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi serve as major hubs with many flights connecting them, so you have numerous choices and plenty of opportunities to find a schedule that fits your itinerary.

When you fly, you don't need a transit visa through Laos or Cambodia, which reduces the process of crossing the Thai-Vietnam border. So not only does flying save a lot of time, it's also more relaxing than long-distance bus or train travel and is usually not much more expensive than traveling overland, all costs considered.

A border crossing flight between Vietnam and Thailand is taking off.

More Insider Tips for You to Cross the Border Smoothly

To make your border crossing between Thailand and Vietnam as smooth as possible, here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Visa requirements

Vietnam requires a visa for most foreign visitors (you can apply for an e-visa online), and Thailand offers visa-free entry (usually for 30 days) to many nationalities. If you are overlanding, you'll also need to check the requirements for a transit visa for Cambodia or Laos.

Plan Ahead

And if you're traveling by bus, train or car, plan the route in advance, allowing time for transit, stopovers and transfers.

Have Local Currency at Hand

Although many border crossings now accept credit cards, it's best to carry some local currency with you for minor expenses, snacks, or transportation fees. You may also convert at bank or authorized money exchange booths.

Pack Smartly

If you plan to cross the border by bus or train, pack water, dry food, light clothing and comfortable shoes.

Gate of Thailand border with Thai characteristics.

Conclusion

Crossing the border between Thailand and Vietnam in 2025 is simpler than ever. From cost-effective bus and train travel to a self-guided tour through Laos and Vietnam, to time-saving flights from Vietnam to Thailand, each option has its own advantages.

The border crossing between the two is a very long journey to discover the multicultural society of Southeast Asia. So pack your bags, prepare the documents, and get ready to experience the tour of the Thailand and Vietnam border crossing!