Plan a Thailand and Vietnam Trip: Itineraries, Travel Tips & Best Time to Go

Planning a trip to Thailand and Vietnam is one of the best ways to explore Southeast Asia. These two countries combine perfectly, offering rich culture, stunning nature, and unforgettable food. Whether you want a short highlights tour or a long, relaxing journey, there are itineraries for every traveler—from exploring Bangkok and Chiang Mai to cruising Halong Bay and wandering Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.

Another big advantage is how easy it is to travel between the two countries. Direct flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket make connections smooth, so you can add both destinations without stress. Plus, with overlapping dry seasons, November to February is the ideal time for pleasant weather in both places.

In the next sections, you’ll discover detailed itineraries, top destinations, travel tips, visa info, and budget guides that will help you plan the perfect Thailand and Vietnam adventure. Keep reading to find the trip style that matches you best.

Best Thailand and Vietnam Trip Itineraries for Every Traveler

Classic and specialized itineraries have something to offer everyone. From week-long to extended trips, these Thailand and Vietnam travel plans will keep you packed with entertainment without ever feeling rushed.

12-Day Classic Highlights Tour – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City
The 12-day class tour will show you the best of Thailand and Vietnam. Hit all the top destinations starting with Bangkok, where you see the city’s highlights, including temples like Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace. Take a day trip to Kanchanaburi to see the floating market and site of the Death Railway.

Fly to Chiang Mai in the mountainous north of Thailand. The beautiful temples in the area, like Wat Umong, are nestled in the forested foothills of Suthep Mountain. Then, visit Elephant Nature Park and learn about conservation efforts to preserve the magnificent animals.

Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is home to historic sites like the Tran Quoc Pagoda and Temple of Literature. It is also the gateway to the stunning Halong Bay, where you will take an overnight cruise sailing between the towering limestone karsts.

In Saigon, you will see Vietnam’s largest metropolis, and home to grand colonial architecture. Visit sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn more about the Vietnam War, and take a day trip to My Tho to explore the Mekong Delta.

12 Days Best of Thailand and Vietnam Tour

Bangkok - Chiang Mai - Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Saigon - My Tho - Saigon

2–3 Week In-Depth Experience – Hidden gems, relaxing beaches, and slower travel
Two to three weeks gives you time for in-depth tour of Thailand and Vietnam, discovering hidden gems. In addition to Hanoi and Halong Bay, venture deeper into northern Vietnam to visit Sapa. The mountain region is a paradise for trekking, where trails will take you through stunning rice terraces and to remote ethnic villages.

Stop in central Vietnam to explore the imperial city of Hue. The former capital is the site of the Nguyen Tombs and home to a unique cuisine. Nearby, Hoi An ancient town awaits with its lantern-lined streets. The charming town preserves the atmosphere of an ancient trading port city.

In Thailand, add a trip to Khao Sok National Park. The world’s oldest lush forest is filled with diverse flora and fauna for all nature lovers. Then, head to the island of Koh Phangan, home to the famous Full-moon parties. Continue island tours with a visit to Phi Phi Island, where you can try out water activities like swimming and snorkeling. End your tour with a free day in Phuket and find out why it's renowned for its beaches and fresh seafood.

24 Days In-depth of Thailand and Vietnam Tour

Hanoi – Sapa – Halong Bay – Hue – Hoi An – Saigon – Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Khao Sok National Park – Koh Phangan – Koh Samui – Phuket – Koh Phi Phi - Phuket

Top Destinations You Can’t Miss on a Thailand and Vietnam Tour

Iconic cities, ancient towns, and breathtaking natural wonders are around every corner in Thailand and Vietnam. In Thailand, Bangkok is the vibrant capital of the country, one of the must-see places to visit in Thailand. It’s filled with stunning temples, busy markets, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Chiang Mai in the north charms visitors with its laid-back atmosphere, historic temples, and access to lush mountain scenery. For a tropical escape, Phuket and Krabi boast some of the world’s most stunning beaches in Thailand, while the Phi Phi Islands offer crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.

In Vietnam, Hanoi is a rich experience of history and culture. The charming Old Quarter, French colonial architecture, and steaming bowls of pho served on every corner are a great way to immerse yourself. For more places to visit in Vietnam, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An is a living museum with lantern-lit streets and centuries-old trading history. Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts and emerald waters are unforgettable, while Ho Chi Minh City pulses with modern energy, historic landmarks, and incredible coffee culture. For something more serene, Sapa in the north offers terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic minority cultures.

Halong Bay is famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters.

Getting from Thailand to Vietnam by Flight Made Simple

Cheap and frequent flights make it easy to get from Thailand to Vietnam. Bangkok is one of the most popular options. From there, you can fly to Hanoi in 1h 55m, Ho Chi Minh City in 1h 45m, and Da Nang in 1h 40m, choosing from multiple daily flights. There is a direct flight from Chiang Mai to Hanoi. Thai AirAsia flies the route every day, taking only 1h 30m. Phuket has a direct flight to Ho Chi Minh City on VietJet Air. The daily flight takes 1h 55m.

Thailand to Vietnam Routes：

Bangkok Airport is the most convenient airport for arriving in Vietnam.

Easy Visa Tips for Your Thailand and Vietnam Trip

Follow these steps to arrange your Thailand and Vietnam visa.

The first step in arranging your visa is to check if you are eligible for a visa exemption. If not, both countries have convenient e-visa systems where you can apply online before traveling.

Thailand and Vietnam Visa Exemptions
Citizens of many countries can enter Thailand and Vietnam visa-free for stays between 7 and 90 days. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa for Thailand or Vietnam when planning a combined trip. The countries include all EU and ASEAN member states, along with the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Thailand Visa Exemptions:

Vietnam Visa Exemptions:

Thailand and Vietnam E-visas
If you need a visa for Thailand or Vietnam, the e-visa processes make it simple to arrange the visa before traveling. Tourist visas can be obtained online for stays of 60 or 90 days, and you’ll be able to smoothly enter through major airports and border crossings.

Thailand e-visa process:
Thailand’s e-visa can be applied for through the official website at https://www.thaievisa.go.th/. Single or multiple-entry visas are available for stays of up to 60 days. The visa fee depends on your country of origin, and it typically takes 3-10 working days for the visa to be processed.

Vietnam e-visa process:
Vietnam’s e-can be applied for through the official website at https://evisa.gov.vn/. E-visas are available for stays of up to 90 days with options for single or multiple entry. A single-entry, 90-day e-visa costs 25 USD and can be used to enter through major airports and land and sea borders. Visa processing time is three working days.

A sample of Vietnam E-Visa.

When to Go: The Best Time for a Thailand and Vietnam Trip

November to February is widely considered the best time to visit Thailand and Vietnam. Weather in both countries lines up for great outdoor conditions. These months have dry, cool weather with temperatures around 20-30°C. Rain is minimal, and the clear blue skies are perfect for enjoying beaches and exploring cities and temples.

The shoulder season in March and April strikes a good balance between fewer tourists and lower costs. Temperatures are a bit higher, and there is more rain, but you will still be able to enjoy plenty of sunshine as well as a more peaceful atmosphere.

From May to October, there can often be heavy rains, but the monsoon season is still enjoyed by some travelers. Few tourists travel to Southeast Asia during this season, so you can have a more authentic experience. Prices can also be very low, with great deals on flights, hotels, and tours. The rain brings the vegetation to life, and you’ll find amazing scenes of lush rice terraces and blooming flowers.

December is one of the best times to combine a trip to Thailand and Vietnam.

Budget Guide: How Much Does a Thailand and Vietnam Trip Cost?

How much a Thailand and Vietnam trip costs depends on your travel style. Backpackers can manage costs by staying in hostels and basic hotels, enjoying delicious street food, and using public transportation. There are many low-cost and free attractions, so travel can be as little as 35-50 USD per day. For a week in Thailand and Vietnam, the cost would be 245 -350USD.

Mid-range travel includes staying at comfortable 3-star hotels and getting around with domestic flights. For around 70-120 USD per day, you can enjoy a mix of casual dining and street food, and entrance tickets to popular attractions.

There is no limit to luxury costs, but expect to spend at least 200 USD a day. This will let you stay at great resorts and take advantage of private tours and transportation as well as having some fine dining experiences.

One of the best ways to save money is by taking advantage of both countries' delicious street food. Street food is an essential part of the culinary experience of Thailand and Vietnam, and it only costs a few dollars per person. Joining group tours can also help you manage your budget. You’ll be able to spread some costs amongst a group of people, while having a more social travel experience.

Street food is an essential part of the travel experience in both Thailand and Vietnam.

Travel Tips to Make Your Thailand and Vietnam Trip Easy

- Book your flights in advance to find better deals. By booking at least a month ahead of time, you can save up to 25%.
- Travel will be smoother if you pack light for domestic flights. Save your souvenir shopping until near the end of your trip.
- Street food is generally safe, but be smart about the places you choose to eat. Look for clean establishments with good food hygiene, and eat from food stalls that are busy.
- When visiting temples and spiritual sites, you will need to respect local customs. Wear conservative clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, remove any hats, and don’t disturb worshippers.

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

Conclusion

Thailand and Vietnam are a great pair when planning a combined tour of Southeast Asia. They have breathtaking natural beauty, world-class beaches, delicious local food, and a wide range of historic and cultural sites. With an overlapping dry season, it’s easy to visit Thailand and Vietnam together for a great experience. Decide on your travel style and choose from countless exciting destinations and highlights for an unforgettable tour. Our expert travel consultants can help you put together a personalized travel itinerary perfect for any budget and style. Contact us anytime to start planning your dream vacation today.