Bus Routes Between Vietnam and Thailand: A Seamless Overland Adventure

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.

A Scenic, Cultural, and Sustainable Overland Journey

Traveling by bus between Vietnam and Thailand offers an authentic, scenic, and budget-friendly way to explore two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the golden temples of Bangkok, or from Hanoi’s ancient charm to Chiang Mai’s tranquil mountains, overland routes connect vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Legend Travel Group specializes in seamless Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours, making border crossings stress-free with expert guidance, comfortable transport, and eco-conscious itineraries.

With direct and connecting bus services via key border crossings like Moc Bai–Bavet and Lao Bao–Dansavanh, travelers can enjoy a flexible, immersive journey. This guide provides detailed bus routes, border procedures, cultural etiquette, and sustainable Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel options—perfect for adventurers seeking authentic connections.

Following updated regional travel policies, Legend Travel Group ensures smooth transitions with pre-arranged visas, comfortable coaches, and local expertise. Book your overland adventure with just a 10% deposit—keep peace of mind until 30 days before departure.

Administrative Note

Bus tickets range from $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND / 700–1,750 THB) depending on route and operator. Border crossings require a valid passport (6+ months) and applicable visas (e.g., Vietnam e-visa or Thailand exemption). Legend Travel Group handles all logistics, including visa support and TM.30/TM.6 forms. Verify schedules and book via legendtravelgroup.com.

Key Routes and Operators

• Ho Chi Minh City → Bangkok (via Moc Bai–Bavet):

  • Distance: ~850 km

  • Duration: 14–16 hours (including border crossing)

  • Operators: The Sinh Tourist, Kumho Samco, Sorya Transport

  • Highlights: Cross the Mekong Delta, pass through Phnom Penh (optional stop), arrive in Bangkok’s Khao San Road area

  • Frequency: Daily departures (morning and evening)

• Ho Chi Minh City → Siem Reap → Bangkok:

  • Distance: ~1,000 km

  • Duration: 18–20 hours (with overnight in Siem Reap)

  • Operators: Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham

  • Highlights: Explore Angkor Wat en route, scenic Cambodian countryside

• Hanoi → Vientiane → Bangkok (via Lao Bao–Dansavanh):

  • Distance: ~1,200 km

  • Duration: 24–28 hours (with overnight in Vientiane)

  • Operators: Naluang, The Transport Co.

  • Highlights: Traverse Vietnam’s northern highlands, cross into Laos, arrive in Bangkok

• Da Nang → Savannakhet → Bangkok:

  • Distance: ~950 km

  • Duration: 20–22 hours

  • Operators: Local Vietnamese and Lao carriers

  • Highlights: Coastal views, central Vietnam landscapes, Thai border entry

Border Crossing Procedures

• Moc Bai (Vietnam) – Bavet (Cambodia): Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM. Present passport and visa; complete Vietnam departure and Cambodia entry forms.

• Lao Bao (Vietnam) – Dansavanh (Laos): Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM. Similar process; Laos visa on arrival available ($30–$50).

• Legend Travel Group Support: All border logistics, visa checks, and luggage handling included in Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours.

Respecting Local Traditions

Cultural respect enhances your journey during Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel. Here’s your guide:

• Greetings: Use “xin chào” in Vietnam and “sawasdee” in Thailand with a smile or slight bow.

• Dress: Cover shoulders and knees at temples (e.g., Wat Pho, Temple of Literature); carry a lightweight scarf.

• Behaviour: Speak softly at border checkpoints; avoid pointing feet at people or Buddha images; ask permission before photographing locals.

• Customs: Tipping drivers/guides ($1–$2) is appreciated; remove shoes in temples; avoid public displays of affection.

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (Vietnam) or “khob khun” (Thailand) to show gratitude. Tony Bùi notes: “Respect opens doors—literally and culturally.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a bilingual phrase card; English works at major stops.

• Respect: Follow bus etiquette—keep seats clean, no loud calls.

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable bottles; decline plastic bags at markets.

Below are curated overland journeys combining bus travel, culture, and sustainability. Book with just 10% deposit—peace of mind guaranteed.

1. Vietnam to Thailand Overland Explorer

• Details: Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh → Siem Reap → Bangkok; includes Angkor Wat sunrise, Mekong Delta cruise.

• Schedule: Weekly; 5 days/4 nights.

• Cost: $399/person (includes transport, entries, meals).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Carbon-offset buses, local homestays.

2. Northern Vietnam to Thailand Adventure

• Details: Hanoi → Sapa → Luang Prabang → Chiang Mai → Bangkok; includes hill tribe visits, Mekong slow boat.

• Schedule: Bi-weekly; 10 days/9 nights.

• Cost: $799/person (includes all transport, guides).

3. Southern Vietnam to Thailand Beach & Culture

• Details: Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh → Koh Kong → Phuket; includes island hopping, cooking class.

• Schedule: Monthly; 7 days/6 nights.

• Cost: $599/person (includes ferries, activities).

4. Custom Vietnam-Thailand Overland Journey

• Details: Tailored route with private VIP bus, expert guides, flexible stops.

• Cost: From $1,200/person (fully customizable).

• Tip: Contact legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84825862222).

• Seamless Logistics: Pre-arranged visas, border support, comfortable AC buses.

• Cultural Immersion: Local guides, authentic meals, community visits.

• Sustainability: Eco-certified operators, zero single-use plastic.

• Flexible Payment: Only 10% deposit—full payment 30 days before departure.

• 24/7 Support: Dedicated team for Vietnam Travel and Thailand Travel.

• Dry Season (November–April): Ideal for clear roads, temple visits; cool in northern routes.

• Shoulder Seasons (May, October): Fewer crowds, lower fares.

• Wet Season (June–September): Scenic greenery; indoor activities in cities.

Morning departures recommended to avoid heat and ensure daylight border crossings.

• Online: Visit legendtravelgroup.com, select “Vietnam to Thailand Overland”.

• Contact: Email sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84825862222).

• Payment: 10% deposit via card; balance 30 days prior.

• Eco-Tip: Choose e-tickets to reduce paper use.

• Documents: Passport, visa/e-visa printout, tour voucher.

• Clothing: Light layers, scarf, rain jacket, comfortable shoes.

• Essentials: Reusable bottle, snacks, power bank, neck pillow.

• Tech: Offline maps, translation app, e-SIM.

• Extras: Small VND/THB notes, first aid kit, money belt. Tip: Pack light—max 7 kg carry-on for bus storage.

Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $35–$60 (bus, meals, entry).

• Mid-range: $80–$120 (Legend Travel Group tour).

• Luxury: $150+ (private VIP bus). Tip: Save with Legend Travel Group’s 10% deposit policy.

• Book Early: Secure seats 2–4 weeks ahead.

• Border Prep: Have passport, visa, and $20–$50 cash.

• Comfort: Bring snacks, water, entertainment.

• Safety: Use hotel safes; keep valuables close.

• Sustainability: Refill water, support local eateries.

• How long is the bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok? 14–16 hours via Moc Bai.

• Do I need a visa for both countries? Check exemptions; Legend Travel Group assists.

• Are buses comfortable? Yes—AC, reclining seats, Wi-Fi on premium routes.

• Can I stop in Cambodia? Yes—add Siem Reap with Legend Travel Group.

• Is it safe? Very—especially with guided Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours.

Enhance your adventure with eco-conscious itineraries:

• Vietnam to Thailand Eco-Overland ($499/person, 6 days): Carbon-neutral buses, temple donations.

• Indochina Loop ($1,299/person, 14 days): Vietnam → Cambodia → Thailand with zero-waste policy.

• Custom Cross-Border Journey: Tailored, sustainable, unforgettable.

Book at legendtravelgroup.com with 10% deposit—full payment 30 days before departure.

Traveling by bus between Vietnam and Thailand is more than transit—it’s a cultural bridge, a scenic feast, and a sustainable choice. With Legend Travel Group’s expertly curated Vietnam Tours and Thailand Tours, every border crossing, temple visit, and local meal becomes a story. Book with just 10% deposit and keep peace of mind until 30 days before departure. Your overland adventure awaits—secure, seamless, and sustainable.

By Legend Travel Group.