How Far is Thailand from Vietnam? Is It Easy to Visit Both Countries?

When planning a trip to Southeast Asia, many travelers find themselves torn between visiting Thailand and Vietnam. Both countries offer rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and shining cities. But how far is Thailand from Vietnam?

Well, this article will answer this question and provide insights on how to travel between these two fascinating destinations. We'll also share why combining Thailand and Vietnam into a single itinerary is highly recommended. Let's get to it!

1. Where are Thailand and Vietnam Located? Are They Sharing Borders?

Thailand and Vietnam are both located in Southeast Asia, but they don't share a direct border. According to the map of Thailand and Vietnam, Thailand is bordered by Myanmar to the west and north, Laos to the northeast, Cambodia to the southeast, and Malaysia to the south.

Vietnam, on the other hand, is bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, and Cambodia to the southwest. The two countries are separated by Laos and Cambodia.

Thailand and Vietnam Location map.

This geographical separation between Thailand and Vietnam, with Laos and Cambodia lying in beween, means that direct travel between the two countries is not as straightforward as it is between neighboring countries.

This separation necessitates either a flight or a more complex overland journey involving multiple border crossings.

Despite how far is Vietnam from Thailand, the rich cultural experiences and diverse landscapes of both countries make the effort of traveling between them well worth it.

2. How Far is Thailand from Vietnam by Flight?

The most convenient way to travel between Thailand and Vietnam is by air. The distance between Bangkok, Thailand, and Hanoi, Vietnam, is approximately 700 kilometers. A direct flight between these two cities takes about two hours.

Major airlines like Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines and budget carriers such as AirAsia and VietJet Air offer frequent flights between various cities in Thailand and Vietnam. This makes flying the quickest and most efficient way to travel between the two countries.

Besides, flights aren't only available between the capitals, Hanoi to Bangkok, but also between other major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

This extensive network of routes allows travelers to customize their itineraries and explore multiple destinations within both countries.

The availability of frequent flights and competitive pricing make flying between Thailand and Vietnam the quickest and most efficient way to travel. 

Thailand Airways offers frequent flights between Thailand and Vietnam.

3. How Far is Thailand from Vietnam by Driving?

For those who prefer overland travel, driving from Thailand to Vietnam is an option, though the spending time is considerably longer than flying. The distance from Bangkok to Hanoi by road is approximately 1,072 kilometers. This journey can take around 20 hours of driving, depending on the route and border crossing points.

The most common route to cross the border from Vietnam to Thailand involves driving through Laos and entering Vietnam via the Lao Bao border crossing. While this option allows for a scenic journey through multiple countries, it requires careful planning and consideration of visa requirements for each country.

9 Days Thailand and Vietnam Classic Tour

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

4. How Far is Thailand from Vietnam by Train?

Traveling by train between Thailand and Vietnam is less straightforward due to the lack of a direct rail connection. However, it is possible to travel by train using a combination of routes through Laos or Cambodia.

One common route involves taking a train from Bangkok to Nong Khai, crossing the border into Laos, and then continuing by train or bus to Hanoi. This journey can be time-consuming and requires multiple transfers, making it less convenient than flying or driving.

However, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the landscapes and cultures of multiple countries along the way.

18 Days Heritage and History Tour of Vietnam and Thailand

Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Sukhothai - Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle - Chiang Mai - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Saigon

5. It's Strongly Recommended to Visit Thailand and Vietnam Together

Visiting both Thailand and Vietnam on the same trip is highly recommended for several reasons. Firstly, obtaining visas for Thailand and Vietnam is relatively easy. Many nationalities can enter Thailand without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, and Vietnam offers e-visas for a similar duration.

Secondly, the two countries offer vastly different landscapes and cultural experiences. Thailand is known for its shining cities, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage, while Vietnam offers stunning natural scenery, historical sites, and a unique blend of French and Asian influences.

Traveling to both countries allows you to make the most of your vacation, experiencing the best of what Southeast Asia has to offer.

A typical itinerary might include exploring the incredibly attractive night life of Bangkok, relaxing on the beaches of Phuket, and then heading to Vietnam to cruise through Ha Long Bay and explore the ancient town of Hoi An. Usually, a two-week trip is recommended to fully appreciate the highlights of both countries.

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

6. More Insider Tips about Vietnam and Thailand Tour

When planning your trip to Thailand and Vietnam, consider learning a few basic words in the local languages to enhance your experience. In Thailand, phrases like "Sawasdee" (Hello) and "Khop khun" (Thank you) are useful, while in Vietnam, "Xin chào" (Hello) and "Cảm ơn" (Thank you) can help you connect with locals.

You also need to know that the best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season from November to early April, while Vietnam's climate varies significantly from north to south. The north experiences four distinct seasons, with the best time to visit being from October to April, while the south has a tropical climate with a dry season from December to April.

Visit Thailand in December.

Lastly, for a truly authentic experience, consider venturing beyond the tourist hotspots and exploring the lesser-known regions of both countries.

Thailand's northern provinces offer stunning mountain scenery and hill tribe villages, while Vietnam's Mekong Delta cruise provides a glimpse into rural life and traditional farming practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Thailand and Vietnam is relatively easy and offers a wealth of experiences for any traveler.

Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the train, the journey between these two countries is an adventure in itself. And with IndochinaTours.com, planning your journey between these two fascinating destinations becomes easier than ever!

We offer tailored Indochina itineraries and help you find the best travel options so you can focus on enjoying your adventure! So, don't miss the opportunity—start packing your bags to explore the best of Southeast Asia with us today!