Explore Thailand & Vietnam: 4 Must-See Multi-Destination Adventures

Tangled jungles or lantern-lit streets? Golden sands or vibrant Mekong riverbanks? Indulgent curries or light, savory noodle soup? A trip that combines Thailand and Vietnam allows you to embrace the best of both worlds – making it one of my favorite travel pairings.

Why Combine Thailand and Vietnam?

Southeast Asia is a dream for travelers eager to explore multiple destinations on a single journey. While Thailand and Vietnam aren’t immediate neighbors, direct flights between them take less than two hours. Their diverse cultures, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes harmonize beautifully, offering a rich blend of cities, rainforests, rivers, mountains, and beaches to discover in one trip.

Below, I present some top vacation ideas for Thailand and Vietnam, with many more options available tailored to your personal interests.

Cultural Vietnam & Thailand’s Beaches

Begin your adventure in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, and travel south, experiencing cultural gems like Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City (commonly referred to as Saigon by locals). You can enjoy a guided tour of the historic Temple of Literature, cycle to a local village near Hue for an authentic home-cooked dinner, or cruise the Mekong to observe riverbank life.

I can help you find accommodations steeped in local culture and history, such as the Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi or the Ancient Hue Garden Houses, reminiscent of imperial nobility homes.

After immersing yourself in Vietnamese culture, fly to Phuket. For a more serene beach experience, I recommend Khao Lak, known for its tranquil coastal vibe and activities like private cooking classes, diving trips to Similan Islands, or sunsets on the beach.

Thailand & Vietnam for Food Lovers

The culinary landscapes of Vietnam and Thailand are a vibrant spectrum of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. This culinary journey is a compelling reason to explore both countries in a single trip. Starting in Bangkok, known as a food lover’s paradise, travel to Chiang Mai, and then fly to Hanoi for a gastronomic tour through Vietnam. I can recommend hotels that enhance your culinary experience, from those with renowned dining to those near popular street-food spots.

In Bangkok, embark on a tuk-tuk food tour at night or enjoy a private walking tour of Chinatown’s culinary offerings. In Vietnam, consider a food blogger-led tour in Hanoi or a traditional lunch at a chef’s home in Hue. To heighten this food journey, add cooking classes to learn to recreate your favorite dishes at home.

Outdoor Adventures in Northern Vietnam & Thailand

For those seeking an active itinerary, the majestic landscapes of Vietnam and Thailand offer countless opportunities for adventure. Start your trip in northern Vietnam, where you can explore Halong Bay’s limestone karsts. Opt for an overnight cruise in the quieter Lan Ha Bay for breathtaking views without the crowds.

Explore Ninh Binh’s rice terraces and river rides, or trek through Mai Chau‘s stunning hills and rice fields. Then journey to Khao Yai National Park in Thailand for wildlife encounters and guided treks to waterfalls and caves. After an exhilarating adventure, unwind on the peaceful beaches of Koh Samet.

Grand Tour of Southeast Asia
If time allows, consider an extensive journey that includes not only Thailand and Vietnam but also neighboring countries. Follow the Mekong River through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, experiencing the rich cultures and histories along the way.

Start in Chiang Mai, then make your way to Luang Prabang for the unique experience of almsgiving with saffron-robed monks. After exploring Laos, travel to Siem Reap for the majestic Angkor temples. From Phnom Penh, you can cruise the Mekong into Vietnam, enjoying a night aboard a converted rice barge as you soak in the beautiful landscapes.

A sample 14-day Vietnam and Thailand route

Getting between the two countries

Direct flights connect Bangkok with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in under two hours, and some routes link Vietnam directly with Phuket. Plan the trip as a one-way journey, for example flying into Hanoi and home from Bangkok or Phuket, to avoid backtracking. Vietnam requires an e-visa for US travelers, which you apply for online before departure, while Thailand asks all visitors to complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival. Check the current rules for your passport for both countries.

Which country first?

For most travelers, culture first and beach last works best: the sightseeing in Vietnam is more intense, and a few days on a Thai beach is the perfect way to finish. If you travel between May and October, consider Vietnam’s central coast, which is at its sunniest in those months, and Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, rather than the Andaman coast.

Best Time to Visit Thailand & Vietnam
The ideal time for a trip to Thailand and Vietnam is from November to April, when the climate is typically hot and dry, perfect for enjoying the beaches. Note that central Vietnam experiences heavier rains in November and December, so early in the new year may be a better choice if you wish to avoid wet weather.

Ready to plan? Explore our private Vietnam tours, or read our guides to Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia and Vietnam and Cambodia Tours.

Frequently asked questions

Can you combine Thailand and Vietnam in one trip?

Yes. Direct flights between them take under two hours, so the two countries pair easily.

What is a good Thailand and Vietnam route?

Travel south through Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, then finish on Thailand’s beaches in Phuket or Khao Lak.

Is Thailand and Vietnam good for food lovers?

Yes, from rich Thai curries to light Vietnamese noodle soups, the two cuisines complement each other.

Can you trek in Thailand and Vietnam on the same trip?

Yes, combining the mountains of northern Vietnam and northern Thailand makes an active trip.

Should I start in Vietnam or Thailand?

Start in Vietnam for culture and finish on a Thai beach: it is the most relaxing order for most travelers.